Tetteh Quashie’s name is well-known and deeply rooted in Ghanaian history, with even the most information-deprived Ghanaians having some understanding of who he was and what he accomplished for the country. Tetteh Quarshie is revered in Ghana as the first man to bring cocoa seedlings to the country from Fendando Po, off the coast of Equatorial Guinea, in 1879, and introduce the country to what has since become one of our most important exports and sources of wealth. While he died several decades ago, his legacy continues on in a variety of ways, the most notable of which being the construction of the Tetteh Quarshie Hospital in his hometown of Mampong in the Eastern region.
His biggest legacy, however, is tied to the very trade he practiced: farming. The cocoa farm on which he cultivated and grew cocoa for years still exists in the Mampong area, and the property is still used to grow cocoa as a way of honoring the great farmer’s memory.
Surprisingly, and to the surprise of many visitors, three original Tetteh Quarshie trees, as well as new cocoa trees planted by the present caretakers and farmers, exist on the vast cocoa plantation.
The farm is cared for by the Mampong palace, which has a particular appointed custodian who must be contacted by tourists planning to visit the farm. The palace’s custodian charges a nominal fee, which goes toward maintaining the farm, and then the tourists are handed over to tour guides at the plantation.
Despite the fact that few people are aware of the plantation’s existence, it continues to attract a significant number of tourists each year, despite the fact that the number is very modest when compared to other prominent historical tourist locations in Ghana.
Why did Tetteh Quarshie bring cocoa to Ghana?
Tetteh Quarshie’s (1842-1892) journey to Fernando Po (now Bioko in Equatorial Guinea) was to change the economics of the Gold Coast (now Ghana) when he returned with cocoa beans. Previously, Ghana’s major staple industries were palm oil and rubber.
Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm Location
In 1879 Tetteh Quarshie planted the seeds at Mampong in the Eastern Region with some success.
Ghana Travel Restrictions
Ghana is open to most travelers again. I mean travelers from all over the world. However, you do need proof of your COVID-19 vaccination(s) or a negative test result before being allowed entry.
Many hotels, attractions, and private tours are open with new health & safety protocols in place, and you still have to follow certain guidelines. They are all good for our safety.
Read the ultimate travel guide to Ghana to help you plan your trip.