The much-awaited summit on the business of Chocolate dubbed ‘The Chocolatarium Business Summit’ comes off on Monday, February 21, at the Kempinski Gold Coast Hotel.
Organised by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), the event also under the umbrella of Ghana CARES Obaatan Pa Programme, seeks to promote and support local businesses in the cocoa value chain amidst Covid-19 challenges beyond.
The discussions under the Summit are designed in line with the mission of the Ghana Cares Obaatan Pa Programme to support businesses and highlight the importance of value creation, promotion and funding of chocolate manufacturers.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Akwasi Agyeman speaking on the maiden edition of this event noted that this summit seeks to bring together stakeholders within the chocolate value chain to discuss ideas on value creation and funding for artisanal chocolate manufacturers.
“After a successful celebration of the 2nd edition of the National Chocolate Week, GTA is introducing the Chocolatarium Business Summit to highlight ways in which we can reap the economic benefits of chocolates while promoting its consumption.
“We will also explore ways to boost chocolate consumption in the hospitality sector. This summit promises to be edifying and insightful,” he said.
In his remarks, he acknowledged the support of the government’s Cares Obaatan Pa Programme.
“GTA is appreciative of the support government is rolling out to ensure that businesses in the cocoa and chocolate sector are empowered to positively contribute to the economic transformation of the country.”
The Finance Ministry under which the Ghana CARES Obaatan Pa Programme operates, said the Chocolatarium Business Summit is an opportunity for the Ministry to reiterate its commitment to presenting policies and programmes that will boost local businesses and help the Ghanaian youth take advantage of business opportunities, in this case in the cocoa and chocolate sector.
The Chocolatarium, is in partnership with the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), GIPC, Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), Ghana Exports Promotion Authority (GEPA), EXIM Bank and Cocoa Value Addition Artisans Association of Ghana (COVAAGH).
High profile personalities expected in attendance include the Deputy Minister of Finance, John Kumah, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GEPA, Dr. Afua Asabea Asare, CEO of COCOBOD, Mr. Joseph Boahen-Aidoo, CEO of GEA, Mrs. Kosi Yankey-Ayeh and CEO of GIPC, Yofi Grant.
Individuals and businesses interested in participating and exhibiting their products and services at the Chocolatarium Business Summit are encouraged to register by sending their details to chocolatarium@visitghana.com
<img src="https://www.mtlblog.com/media-library/a-street-in-the-small-city-of-dolbeau-mistassini-quebec.jpg?id=56518597&width=1200&height=800&coordinates=132%2C0%2C132%2C0"/><br/><br/><p> As <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/montreal-how-much-buy-home" target="_blank">home prices continue to skyrocket</a> across Canada, finding an affordable place to buy is no easy feat, especially in cities like <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/tag/montreal-cost-of-living" target="_blank">Montreal</a>, Toronto, and Vancouver.
</p><p> But if you're looking to stretch your budget without sacrificing quality of life, you're not totally out of luck — Quebec has emerged as the reigning champion when it comes to <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/tag/quebec-homes-for-sale" target="_blank">affordable homeownership</a>.
</p><p> In fact, eight different cities in the province have topped a list of the most affordable places to <a href="https://www.mtlblog.com/buy-home-montreal-canada" target="_blank">buy a home in Canada</a> for 2025. According to a recent <a href="https://www.nesto.ca/real-estate/20-cheapest-cities-to-live-in-canada/" target="_blank">Nesto report</a>, which took house prices, average household incomes, and the cost of living into account, many of Quebec's smaller cities and towns offer some serious value. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an industrial hub, there's no shortage of affordable options in this province.
</p><p> The cities on the list are not just affordable — they also boast excellent quality of life, from scenic views and outdoor activities to growing job markets.
</p><p> With that in mind, here's a breakdown of the eight Quebec towns that made the top 10 list for the most affordable places to buy a home right now.
</p><h3>Rivière-du-Loup, Quebec</h3><br/><p>Located in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region, Rivière-du-Loup is known for its whale-watching and its breathtaking views along the St. Lawrence River. Not only is it a dream for nature lovers, but it's also incredibly affordable. Average home prices here are about $294,955, far below the national average of $720,000.</p><ul><li>Average Home Price: $294,955</li><li>Average Household Income: $70,894</li></ul><h3>Thetford Mines</h3><br/><p>Once famous for its asbestos industry, Thetford Mines is now known for its affordability and strong ties to the region's rich natural resources. If you're looking for a place where you can stretch your budget without sacrificing access to urban amenities, Thetford Mines may be it, as homes here go for less than $200,000.</p><ul><li>Average Home Price: $196,537</li><li>Average Household Income: $64,231</li></ul><h3>Sainte-Marie, Quebec</h3><br/><p>For those who want the best of both worlds — peaceful riverside living with close proximity to Quebec City — Sainte-Marie is the place to be. With an average home price of $306,957, it's a bit higher than some of the other towns on the list, but its affordability combined with its stunning location makes it a worthy contender.</p><ul><li>Average Home Price: $306,957</li><li>Average Household Income: $87,119</li></ul><h3>Alma, Quebec</h3><br/><p>Alma, situated in the Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region, offers affordable homes in a region known for its outdoor activities. The city is a hub for agriculture and industry, and with an average home price of $271,142, it's a great option for anyone looking for value in a quieter area.</p><ul><li>Average Home Price: $271,142</li><li>Average Household Income: $74,485</li></ul><h3>Rimouski, Quebec</h3><br/><p>Rimouski, often referred to as Quebec's hub for marine research and conservation, is growing rapidly but remains incredibly affordable. With a price tag of around $298,714, Rimouski offers a unique mix of scientific innovation and coastal living, all at an affordable price point.</p><ul><li>Average Home Price: $298,714</li><li>Average Household Income: $72,435</li></ul><h3>Victoriaville, Quebec</h3><br/><p>Located in the Centre-du-Québec region, Victoriaville is known for its vibrant local economy and affordable living. With a strong industrial sector and beautiful natural surroundings, it's a great place to settle down, with average home prices hovering around $297,150.</p><ul><li>Average Home Price: $297,150</li><li>Average Household Income: $68,269</li></ul><h3>Dolbeau-Mistassini, Quebec</h3><br/><p>Nestled in the heart of Lac-Saint-Jean, Dolbeau-Mistassini is a rural town that offers the charm of rural living combined with affordable housing. Average home prices here are just $219,932, making it an affordable option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger cities.</p><ul><li>Average Home Price: $219,932</li><li>Average Household Income: $68,175</li></ul><h3>Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec</h3><br/><p>In the heart of Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Rouyn-Noranda rounds out Nesto's top 10 list. Known for its mining industry and growing cultural scene, this city offers a higher average home price of $316,351, but it also boasts a higher average household income of $82,859, making it a great option for those in search of a solid economic base.</p><ul><li>Average Home Price: $316,351</li><li>Average Household Income: $82,859</li></ul><div>
<p> Rounding out Nesto's top 10 list for affordable home prices were places like Tracadie and Bathurst in New Brunswick. </p>
<p> The report, which you can check out <a href="https://www.nesto.ca/real-estate/20-cheapest-cities-to-live-in-canada/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>, also includes a list of cities with the most affordable rental markets.</p>
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