COCOBOD PLEDGES STRONGER COLLABORATION WITH COOPERATIVES TO BOOST COCOA SECTOR

Date: 17th March 2025

Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has reiterated its commitment to strengthening ties with organised cooperatives to drive growth and sustainability in the cocoa sector. 

The Chief Executive of COCOBOD, Dr. Randy Anertey Abbey described cooperatives as essential players in the cocoa value chain and emphasised their critical role in promoting the Board’s programmes and initiatives.

Speaking on his behalf at the launch of the Ghana Cooperative Cocoa Farmers Association & Marketing Ltd in Kumasi, Dr. Francis Baah, Deputy Chief Executive of COCOBOD in charge of Agronomy and Quality Control, encouraged cocoa farmers to reinvest proceeds from their farms to enhance their businesses.

Dr. Abbey further highlighted the need for increased irrigation as a response to unpredictable weather patterns, which have significantly impacted cocoa production.

"Years ago, we experienced eight months of continuous rainfall and four months of dry season, but today, the situation is reversed. Irrigation is the future of cocoa farming," he stated.

He expressed concern over the growing threats of illegal mining (galamsey) and cocoa smuggling, describing them as major factors contributing to the decline in cocoa production. He assured farmers that COCOBOD is working on strategies to provide critical support services such as inputs, fertilizers, and logistics to improve cocoa productivity.

Dr. Abbey also urged farmers not to hoard their cocoa beans in anticipation of higher prices, stressing that, "This year promises a good harvest. We need the beans to sell and generate the necessary revenue to continue supporting you."

The National President of the newly launched association, Mr. Issifu Issaka, called on cocoa farmers to remain united in pursuing common goals and advocated for cocoa price adjustments in farmers’ best interests.

Nana Osabarima Adusei Peasah IV, Chief of Akyem Tafo, encouraged farmers to support government efforts to combat illegal mining and smuggling. He stressed the need to protect cocoa farmlands. 

The Global President of the World Cocoa Farmers Organization (WCFO), Nana Abraham Adusei, also advised farmers against ceding their lands to illegal miners, warning of the long-term consequences.

The launch event saw solidarity messages from key industry stakeholders, including Solidaridad, AgriTerra, the World Cocoa Foundation, the Ghana Cooperative Council, the Côte d'Ivoire-Ghana Cocoa Initiative and Zenith Bank.

The establishment of the Ghana Cooperative Cocoa Farmers Association & Marketing Ltd, the umbrella body for all cocoa farmer cooperatives in Ghana is expected to provide cocoa farmers with a stronger voice in the sector, ensuring better support and opportunities for growth.