Cocoa Farmers Deserve a Better Future, and We’re Taking Steps to Make It Happen – COCOBOD CEO
COCOBOD CEO Dr. Abbey Outlines Plans to Revamp Cocoa Industry with Price Increases, Youth Engagement, and Modernization Efforts
- Plans to review the producer price for the 2025/2026 season to improve farmers' livelihoods
- Emphasis on modernizing farming practices and introducing innovative tools
- Focus on irrigation systems and strengthening laws to protect cocoa trees
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Dr. Ransford Anertey Abbey, has reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to improving cocoa farmers’ livelihoods, even in the face of numerous challenges plaguing the sector.
During a farmers’ rally at Attronso in the Sefwi Bekwai District, part of his maiden three-day visit to the Western North Region, Dr. Abbey announced that plans are in motion to revise the cocoa producer price for the 2025/2026 season. This move is part of the government’s ongoing effort to enhance the living conditions of farmers and attract younger generations into the industry.
“Despite facing financial limitations, COCOBOD is determined to offer cocoa farmers better prices for their produce,” Dr. Abbey emphasized.
He also voiced concerns over the aging cocoa farmer population, which poses a threat to the sector’s future sustainability. Dr. Abbey stressed the importance of modernizing the cocoa industry to make it more appealing to youth, including introducing innovative tools and techniques in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture.
In response to climate change, Dr. Abbey revealed plans to prioritize irrigation systems for cocoa farms to address erratic rainfall patterns. He encouraged farmers to join cooperatives, as these would provide a more cost-effective and efficient way to implement irrigation projects.
Additionally, the CEO disclosed efforts to amend laws protecting cocoa trees in order to safeguard the industry from environmental threats, particularly illegal mining activities. He highlighted the importance of legal reforms to protect cocoa trees from destruction by “galamsey” operations, ensuring cocoa remains a source of generational wealth for future generations.
Dr. Abbey also assured farmers of a steady supply of fertilizers and agrochemicals and vowed to address any instances of diversion or misconduct related to these resources. He called for unity and collaboration across all stakeholders to revitalize and sustain the cocoa sector.
