The Problem

Ghana, the world's second-largest cocoa producer, depends on nearly 800,000 smallholder farmers. Yet over 60% live on less than $1.25 a day despite a $100 billion global market; meanwhile, 70% of each cocoa pod — about 560,000 tonnes annually — is discarded as husk, releasing over 1.6 million tonnes of CO₂ when burned, even though this nutrient-rich by‑product could meet the growing demand for sustainable, caffeine‑free wellness drinks.

Sources: (UN, FAO, 2021); World Bank, 2020; Fairtrade Foundation, 2018; Grand View Research, 2023

Close-up of discarded cocoa husks showing waste potential
Cocoa pods being processed with husks being discarded
Environmental impact of burning cocoa husks

Our Solution

KOVAnoid turns cocoa pod husks, nearly 70% of the cocoa fruit that’s often discarded, into a caffeine-free wellness tea. By partnering with local farmers, we reduce waste and CO₂ emissions while creating a sustainable beverage rich in antioxidants. Every cup supports cleaner farms, healthier communities, and a future where Ghana’s cocoa legacy fuels both wellness and sustainability.

Detailed diagram showing cocoa pod transformation process into wellness tea
KOVAnoid premium tea packaging and branding showcase
Final KOVAnoid wellness tea product ready for consumption

Social Impact

Guided by the Triple Bottom Line approach, we balance social, economic, and environmental impact.

Environmental sustainability icon representing CO2 reduction

Environmental Impact

Transforming waste into valuable products, reducing CO₂ emissions by up to 1.6 million tonnes annually.

Health and wellness icon representing antioxidant benefits

Health & Wellness

Providing caffeine-free, antioxidant-rich beverages that promote better health and wellness choices.

Social empowerment icon representing farmer support

Social Empowerment

Creating additional income streams for smallholder farmers, improving livelihoods in rural communities.

Our Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals

We align our work with key UN Sustainable Development Goals that reflect our mission: reducing poverty through fair opportunities for farmers, supporting health and wellbeing with clean, caffeine‑free beverages, enabling decent work and economic growth in rural communities, promoting responsible production by upcycling cocoa husks, and taking climate action by lowering CO₂ emissions. Click any goal below to learn how KOVAnoid contributes.

Our Team

Professional headshot of Stephen Abuakwah, Co-founder

Stephen Abuakwah

Co-founder & Corporate Lead

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Professional headshot of Evelyn Natashia Ayinpoka Ayinlooya, Research Scientist

Evelyn Natashia Ayinpoka Ayinlooya

Research & Lab Scientist

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Professional headshot of Albert Kwame Tchalla, CTO

Albert Kwame Tchalla

Chief Technology Officer

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Professional headshot of Samuel Essel Acquah, Communications Officer

Samuel Essel Acquah

Communication & Branding Officer

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Advisory Board Members

Professional headshot of Francois Labonte, Advisory Board Member

Francois Labonte

Banking & International Consultant

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Join the Wellness Revolution

Ready to Get Started?

Have questions about KOVAnoid or interested in partnerships? We'd love to hear from you.

Contact Us