The government has promised comprehensive reforms to reset Ghana’s cocoa sector amid mounting challenges, including delayed payments to farmers.
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson said the reforms are designed to build a more resilient, value-driven cocoa industry.
Speaking at a meeting with cocoa processors ahead of a press briefing on Thursday, February 12, he stressed the importance of assessing local processing capacity as part of a broader strategy to deepen value addition.
“The sector has sustained this country for years, created jobs, and been the mainstay of our economy. But it is undergoing challenges that need reform. Reforms will be announced today, and I’m confident that going forward, all of us will be satisfied,” Forson said.
Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry,, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare highlighted that boosting value addition along the cocoa value chain will create jobs and help stabilise the local currency.
COCOBOD Chief Executive Officer Dr. Randy Abbey also called for a strategic shift away from decades of reliance on raw cocoa exports.
“We intend to change the direction of the cocoa sector. Overreliance on raw beans must end. We need to focus on value addition, job creation, and ensuring farmers receive fair value for their work,” he said.
