In the heart of Malawi, amidst lush cocoa trees and a passion for innovation, Wezi Mzumara stands as a beacon of entrepreneurship and creativity. As the founder of Kwanza Cocoa, Malawi’s premier craft chocolate company, Mzumara has not only broken barriers but has also carved a niche for herself as the country’s first and only female chocolate maker.
Mzumara’s journey into the world of chocolate-making was far from conventional. After returning from her pursuits in the fashion and entertainment industries of the UK, she found herself at a crossroads when her parents encouraged her to pursue farming. Undeterred by their expectations, Mzumara ventured into cocoa cultivation, despite her initial reservations.
Starting with just four cocoa trees on her family’s property, Mzumara’s ambition soon flourished as she expanded her farm to include 30 more trees. In 2017, with her cocoa trees finally ready for harvest, she embarked on the daunting task of transforming her cocoa beans into delectable chocolates. Despite facing challenges and doubts along the way, Mzumara’s perseverance and dedication fueled her journey towards success.
Through continuous learning and experimentation, Mzumara honed her craft, evolving from a cocoa farmer to a skilled chocolate maker and chocolatier-in-training. Her dedication paid off when she officially registered Kwanza Cocoa in 2022, marking a significant milestone in her entrepreneurial endeavors.
The process of chocolate-making, as described by Mzumara, is a labor-intensive endeavor that requires precision and patience. From fermentation to roasting, winnowing, and refining, each step demands meticulous attention to detail to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
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Despite her achievements, Mzumara remains humble, emphasizing her commitment to quality and craftsmanship. With four standard varieties of chocolate on offer, including dark chocolate, demarche, milk chocolate, and white chocolate, she continues to captivate the taste buds of her growing clientele.
Beyond her role as a chocolate maker, Mzumara is also a trailblazer in the fashion industry, co-founding Mzuzu Fashion Week—an event dedicated to showcasing local designers, models, and artisans. While she temporarily stepped away from managing the fashion week, Mzumara plans to reclaim her position in 2025, further cementing her legacy as a multifaceted entrepreneur.
As Wezi Mzumara continues to redefine the landscape of Malawi’s culinary and fashion scenes, her pioneering spirit serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and changemakers across the globe. Through her unwavering determination and innovative vision, she is not only transforming lives but also leaving an indelible mark on her nation’s history.