COSISP TECHNOLOGIES TO ENSURE EFFICIENCY IN THE COCOA SECTOR

Date: 23rd September 2024

The Chairman of the Steering Committee for the Cocoa Sector Institutional Support Project (COSISP), Hon. Yaw Frimpong Addo, has assured staff of the Cocoa Health and Extension Division (CHED) that the introduction of new technologies under the COSISP initiative will revolutionize operations within the cocoa sector.

These advancements include the provision of computers, tablets, and other modern gadgets aimed at replacing outdated devices, enabling field staff to seamlessly collect, transfer, and upload data with greater accuracy.

Speaking during a working visit to CHED staff at Antoakrom in the Ashanti Region, Hon. Frimpong highlighted the significance of this technological upgrade. 

"Under COSISP, we have supplied you with computers and tablets. Instead of using phones to work, these tablets will streamline the process, making data collection, transfer, and file uploads from the field much simpler," he stated.

The visit, aimed at assessing units funded under the COSISP project, emphasized the project's role in equipping both offices and officers at the district level.

According to Hon. Addo, the initiative is designed to ensure that CHED staff stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

By adopting advanced technologies, the division aims to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs, aligning with the broader goal of digitalizing all COCOBOD activities, from the farm to the market.

"It is management’s desire to digitalize all COCOBOD activities, making the sector more attractive to the youth, who are naturally inclined towards these modern technologies," Hon. Addo added. 

By incorporating such tools, COCOBOD hopes to appeal to younger generations and maintain the relevance of the cocoa sector in an increasingly tech-driven world.

The Project Coordinator, Mr. Abdul Wahab Suleman, emphasized that the COSISP project extends beyond support for field staff, encompassing every department and unit within COCOBOD.

According to him, over 600 staff across various subsidiaries and divisions have already undergone specialized training aimed at equipping them with the skills required to leverage the new technologies and improve their performance.

"About 600 staff have received training in their respective fields of study under COSISP, and this will enhance their ability to approach tasks with a fresh perspective," Mr Suleman noted.

He also highlighted the successful training of nearly 270 staff within the Warehousing and Port Operations, including those from the Cocoa Marketing Company (CMC) and the Quality Control Company (QCC).

Mr. Suleman reiterated the importance of capacity building as a driver for change and excellence within corporate organizations. 

He expressed optimism that the training provided under COSISP would lead to a noticeable improvement in the performance and efficiency of COCOBOD staff.

"To whom much is given, much is expected. We believe that the trained staff will enhance their performance and contribute to strengthening the corporate culture and image of COCOBOD," Mr Suleman emphasized.

As the second phase of the COSISP project progresses, with completion anticipated by 2025, COCOBOD aims to strengthen its institutional capacity further, ultimately boosting both staff performance and the organization’s overall effectiveness in driving the growth and sustainability of Ghana's cocoa sector.

Through such initiatives, the Board reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that the cocoa industry remains at the forefront of technological innovation, paving the way for future generations of farmers and industry stakeholders.