West African Mills Company Ltd (WAMCO) is one of Ghana’s historic cocoa processing companies, established in 1947 to add value to locally grown cocoa and reduce the export of raw beans. It is located in Takoradi in the Western Region of Ghana and has been a key part of the country’s cocoa industry for decades.

WAMCO was originally founded by Gills and Dufus of London, and full production began in 1949. Over the years, the company became an important producer of semi-finished cocoa products such as natural cocoa liquor, deodorized cocoa butter, and expeller cocoa cake, which are used as raw materials in chocolate and confectionery production worldwide.

The company operates under a free zone status, meaning its products are primarily manufactured for export markets. It has multiple processing lines, including expeller, liquor, and hydraulic press plants, with significant capacity to process large volumes of cocoa beans for international trade.

WAMCO’s ownership has involved a joint-venture between Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) and Hosta International AG of Germany, reflecting a blend of local and foreign investment. After facing operational challenges and temporary shutdowns in the mid-2010s due to supply and financial issues, WAMCO received renewed support aimed at revival and modernization, including efforts to restart production and improve processing capacity.

The company plays an important role in Ghana’s cocoa value-addition strategy, helping the country earn more from processed exports instead of raw commodity sales. Its products traditionally serve markets in Europe and beyond, contributing to foreign exchange earnings and local employment.

Today, WAMCO continues to pursue capacity upgrades and strategic partnerships to strengthen its processing capabilities and expand its reach in global cocoa supply chains.