STAFF OF COCOBOD TRAINED IN COST CONTROL AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Date: 13th January 2025

The Management of Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has organised a 2-day capacity training programme on cost control and project management for selected staff.

The training programme is in line with HR policies aimed at enhancing and improving the skills of staff in their respective fields of operation, contributing to the sustainability of the cocoa sector.

Addressing participants at the opening session, the Deputy Director of Human Resource at COCOBOD, Mrs. Paz Owusu, explained that the training is necessary for staff in fields such as accounting, auditing, procurement, and others, to help manage the company’s expenses more sustainably.

“In terms of HR requirements, organising training on cost control and project management are key factors in controlling the company’s expenses on projects and helping safeguard the cocoa sector from overspending,” she said.

According to the Deputy Director, it is crucial to equip staff with modern practices in their fields of operation to remain competitive in the job market. Mrs. Paz further stated that the cocoa sector and all key stakeholders are evolving with modern standard operating procedures and advanced technologies to deliver accurate results.

“The cocoa sector is growing every day; therefore, COCOBOD staff also have to catch up with more advanced work ethics in their respective fields to contribute positively to the sector,” she emphasised.

Mrs. Paz Owusu expressed confidence in the participants, stating that the knowledge acquired will have a positive impact on the sector and add value to their work.

Mr. Moses Nkuah, the Director of Maxim Service Limited, who led the training, highlighted key management objectives that will ensure the sector’s expenditures align with the company’s project plans.

“Aligning expenditures with project plans, providing accurate cost forecasts, and keeping stakeholders informed about budget performance will create more transparent financial details,” he added.

He further outlined the fundamental cost control cycle, which involves setting a plan, tracking performance, forecasting, analysing results, taking corrective actions, and verifying outcomes. This cycle will increase productivity and minimise costs.

Participants expressed appreciation for the opportunity to enhance their knowledge in cost and project management, believing it will contribute to increased productivity and profitability at COCOBOD.

In all, 40 participants from the General Services and Finance Departments benefited from the training program.