The Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Dr. Ransford Anertey Abbey, has reiterated the organisation’s resolve to improve the welfare of cocoa farmers despite the numerous hurdles facing the industry.

Addressing a farmers’ rally in Attronso, located in the Sefwi Bekwai District of the Western North Region, Dr. Abbey revealed that discussions are underway to adjust the cocoa producer price for the 2025/2026 season.

“Despite our financial constraints…the management of COCOBOD is committed to offering cocoa farmers a better price for their produce,” he emphasized.

The COCOBOD boss, on his first official visit to the region, used the opportunity to voice concern over the ageing population of cocoa farmers.

He described the trend as a challenge to the future stability of the sector and stressed the need to make cocoa farming more attractive to younger generations.

“We are working closely with the Ministry of Agriculture to modernize cocoa farming. By introducing advanced tools and equipment, we aim to make the sector more lucrative and appealing to young people,” he stated.

Touching on the impact of climate change, Dr. Abbey disclosed that the Board is prioritizing the introduction of irrigation systems to deal with unpredictable rainfall patterns affecting cocoa yields. He, however, noted that the success of such interventions depends on collective action from farmers.

“We cannot implement irrigation systems for individual farmers, it’s costly, and access to water sources has been severely affected by illegal mining (galamsey). Cooperative farming is the way forward,” he explained.

In addition, he said legal reforms are in progress to safeguard cocoa trees and protect the cocoa ecosystem from further environmental damage.

“Cocoa farming is a source of generational wealth; we need laws to protect cocoa trees and stop the destruction caused by galamsey operators,” he said.

Dr. Abbey assured farmers that they will receive inputs such as fertilisers and agrochemicals on time. He also issued a stern warning against the diversion of these resources.

“These inputs are procured with significant investment to reduce the burden on farmers. I will personally ensure that any misconduct or diversion is addressed, and if anybody is found complicit in diversion, they will be held accountable,” he said.

He concluded by urging all stakeholders—farmers, partners, and institutions—to rally behind efforts to revamp and protect the cocoa sector.

Dr. Abbey was accompanied by key members of COCOBOD management during the three-day tour.