An expert in Ghana’s agricultural sector is urging reforms in cocoa sector governance, warning that political interference is undermining the nation’s key cash crop and threatening farmers’ livelihoods.
Dr. Frank Ackah, Senior Lecturer at the University of Cape Coast, known in agricultural circles as “The Gardener,” highlighted that political appointments at Cocobod have frequently disrupted programs intended to support farmers, drive sector growth, and promote long-term stability.
He emphasized that while cocoa has historically been the backbone of Ghana’s economy, management issues and partisan influence threaten to undermine its future.
“I propose that the cocoa board be led by experts. Let’s not appoint politicians; let’s bring in technocrats and professionals to run the cocoa board,” Dr. Ackah said.
According to Dr. Ackah, only independent, expert-led management can ensure that critical initiatives, including crop diversification, farm rehabilitation, and sustainable funding, are effectively implemented. He stressed that such a shift would help ensure policies are guided by knowledge and the best interests of farmers rather than partisan agendas.
Dr. Ackah added that addressing political interference is not just about governance, but also about protecting the livelihoods of millions of cocoa farmers. By empowering technocrats, creating autonomous boards, and investing in crop diversification, Ghana can safeguard its agricultural economy while giving farmers real choices for income and stability.
While urging reform, Dr. Ackah also praised government initiatives in other agricultural areas. He noted that the budget’s investment packages, including support for the oil palm sector, show a commitment to agricultural development. However, he warned that most of these plans are still on paper and have yet to produce tangible impacts for farmers.
Without decisive reforms and insulation from political agendas, the sector risks continued inefficiency, reduced productivity, and increasing vulnerability, consequences that could ripple across the rural economy and affect the nation’s overall development.
