In a bid to strengthen ties and unify the cocoa value chain, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Dr Randy Abbey has engaged cocoa farmers in Nkawie, a key cocoa producing community in the Ashanti Region.

The engagement forms part of his ongoing two-day working tour in the region aimed at strengthening existing ties with COCOBOD and stakeholders and hearing first-hand concerns of farmers and discussing collaborative approaches to tackling challenges in the cocoa sector.

Speaking to the farmers, Dr Abbey acknowledged their contribution to Ghana’s economy and emphasised COCOBOD’s commitment to supporting their efforts through innovation, policy reforms, and improved agronomical practices.

“Spending this Workers’ Day with you is not only symbolic but essential. Your tireless efforts sustain Ghana’s global standing in cocoa production,” Dr. Abbey said during an address to the farmers. “We are here to listen and partner with you in crafting sustainable solutions,” he said.

The farmers, however raised pressing issues, including delays in input distribution, limited access to financing, inadequate infrastructure, and concerns over producer prices.

In response, Dr Abbey assured them that COCOBOD is implementing targeted reforms, including the introduction of climate-resilient farming initiatives, productivity enhancement programmes, and strategies to improve transparency and farmer incomes.

He emphasised that the Board’s vision extends beyond subsidies, focusing instead on long-term sustainability through innovation, knowledge-sharing, and improved market access.

“We are working on reforms that go beyond subsidies and focus on sustainability by empowering farmers with knowledge, tools, and market access to thrive in a changing global economy,” he added.

Dr Abbey’s two-day working visit will continue in other parts of the Ashanti Region, where he is expected to meet with other farmer groups, inspect farms and further outline his vision for Ghana’s cocoa sector.

SP/MA

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