The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Dr. Ransford Abbey, has praised the dedication and hard work of cocoa farmers, acknowledging their crucial role in sustaining and growing the country’s cocoa sector.
During an engagement with farmers at Jinijini in the Berekum West District as part of his familiarization tour of cocoa-growing communities in the Bono and Ahafo Regions, Dr. Abbey reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting cocoa farmers through targeted interventions.
He announced that ahead of the 2025/2026 cocoa season, government plans are underway to supply agro-chemicals, fertilizers, machinery, and other essential farm inputs to boost productivity and improve bean quality.
“Our cocoa farmers are the backbone of this vital industry, with the right support, they can increase production, improve quality, and ultimately earn better prices for their produce, Dr. Abbey said.
He also hinted at a possible increase in the producer price of cocoa for the upcoming cocoa season to further motivate farmers and improve their livelihoods.
Member of Parliament for Berekum West, Mr. Dickson Kyere Duah, joined the visit and applauded COCOBOD’s leadership for its renewed focus on farmer welfare and sector growth.
Speaking on behalf of the farmers, Mr. Augustine Nyarko urged the CEO to fast-track the implementation of the Cocoa Farmers’ Pension Scheme initiated by the previous administration.
He also appealed for the expansion of COCOBOD’s scholarship programme and a stronger push towards adding value to cocoa beans and by-products to enhance the cocoa value chain.
