As I follow the story of cocoa value addition in Africa, I’m struck by how crucial self-education is to the success of chocolate makers and chocolatiers on the continent.
Sometimes, their journey began with a need to solve a pressing problem, like Uzoamaka‘s quest for quality chocolate in her baking. Other times, it starts as a quest to satisfy curiosity, like Wezi wanting to experiment with chocolate-making with beans from her cocoa farm.
Today, both women are founders of big Craft Chocolate brands in their respective countries. Uzo is the founder of Loom Craft Chocolate in Nigeria, and Wezi owns Kwanza Cocoa in Malawi.
But you see, their learning isn’t only about making chocolates. But doing it in a part of the world where the weather isn’t considered favorable to chocolate.
That’s where the struggle begins. That’s where learning to figure things out is crucial. That’s where creativity must be unleashed. And that’s where my admiration for these active learners, or entrepreneurs, begins.
In them, my passions for learning, storytelling, and African cocoa converge with excitement. And it’s always a delight to watch them continue to figure things out while making an impact in the lives of many.
African cocoa farmers and entrepreneurs have many thrilling experiences to share as they grow the industry. I hope their stories inspire more young Africans to become active learners who can unlock cocoa’s potential to improve lives on the continent.
Thanks for reading this. Enjoy your day!❤️