The government has pledged a series of reforms aimed at revitalising Ghana’s cocoa sector, addressing long-standing challenges such as delayed payments to farmers.
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson said the measures 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 need to assess local processing capacity as part of a broader strategy to increase value addition.
“The sector has sustained this country for years, created jobs, and been the backbone of our economy. But it is facing challenges that require reform. These reforms will be announced today, and I am confident they will satisfy all stakeholders,” Dr. Forson said.
Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, added that enhancing value addition along the cocoa value chain would not only create jobs but also help stabilise the local currency.
COCOBOD Chief Executive Officer Dr. Randy Abbey echoed the call for change, urging a move away from decades of reliance on raw cocoa exports.
“We intend to redirect the cocoa sector. Overreliance on raw beans must end. Our focus will be on value addition, job creation, and ensuring farmers receive fair compensation for their work,” he said.