COCOBOD CEO Highlights Major Achievements to Cocoa Farmers in Western-South Region.

Dunkwa-On-Offin: The Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Mr. Joseph Boahen-Aidoo, has called on cocoa farmers to recognize the significant interventions made by the government in the cocoa sector. These initiatives, he noted, have led to increased productivity, thereby enhancing the economic well-being of the farmers. Mr. Boahen-Aidoo was speaking at a durbar for cocoa farmers at Dunkwa-On-Offin in the Western-South Region, as part of COCOBOD's regular engagements under the Cocoa Productivity Enhancement Programme.According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Boahen-Aidoo emphasized the importance of educating farmers on adopting effective farming practices to boost productivity. Reflecting on his eight-year tenure as CEO, he acknowledged the positive impact of his frequent field visits and educational efforts, which have significantly increased cocoa yield. He highlighted that prior to his administration, a cocoa farmer typically harvested three bags per acre, whereas now, with continuous educati on, a farmer can harvest up to 20 bags.Mr. Boahen-Aidoo also mentioned the government's efforts to enhance the livelihood of cocoa farmers by increasing the producer price of cocoa. He detailed interventions such as utilizing cocoa beans to process local shea butter and producing pre-mix fuel for slashing machines and motorized farm sprayers. These initiatives are part of broader efforts, including the Cocoa Rehabilitation Programme, which involves replacing old cocoa trees with new ones. Furthermore, he noted that the government has secured a World Bank loan to support this initiative.The CEO also addressed concerns about the depreciation of the cedi against the dollar, affirming COCOBOD's commitment to raising the producer price of cocoa despite these challenges. He dismissed claims that cocoa farmers are in a worse position under the current administration, urging farmers to appreciate governmental efforts since 2017 and to support the ruling NPP party.Nana Nuako III, Chief of Dunkwa-On-Offin, expres sed gratitude on behalf of the Upper Denkyira District farmers for COCOBOD's introduction of improved farming practices. He noted that from 2017 to 2024, there has been a substantial supply of farming inputs to cocoa farmers, contributing to increased productivity. Nana Nuako III commended COCOBOD for raising cocoa prices despite the cedi's devaluation.