Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Joseph Boahen Aidoo, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing abandoned cocoa road projects in the Western North Region.
Speaking at an engagement session with farmers and traditional leaders in the Juaboso and Bia districts, he emphasized that the development of cocoa roads remains a priority to enhance the livelihoods of farmers and increase cocoa production.
The abandoned road projects, which were initiated under COCOBOD, have faced delays due to financial constraints.
Addressing the concerns of farmers, Aidoo assured them that the government is determined to resume work on these roads, which are crucial for improving transportation to markets, reducing post-harvest losses, and boosting productivity.
Among the roads mentioned were Benchema-Adjofua and Enchi-Elubo, with the CEO pledging that their completion would ease the burden of transporting cocoa and other goods in the region.
Highlighting the importance of infrastructure in cocoa-growing areas, Aidoo noted that the roads would facilitate a smoother flow of produce to processing centers, ultimately benefiting farmers.
He also outlined plans for closer collaboration between the government, COCOBOD, and local authorities to ensure the timely resumption and completion of the projects.
During the session, Samuel Tabiri, the Sehwi Juaboso Cocoa Health and Extension Officer, commended Aidoo for educating farmers on best practices to enhance their yields.
This collaborative approach, Tabiri noted, was vital for ensuring the long-term development of the cocoa sector and the well-being of farmers in the region.