The new Chief Executive Officer for Ghana COCOBOD, Dr. Randy Abbey, has pledged to address the challenges crippling the cocoa industry in the country.
Speaking to a farmers’ group in Accra after assuming office, he said he is aware of the challenges the sector faces and will engage the farmers, who are key players, to address those issues.
“I am aware of the problems the sector is going through and have also read about them, which include cocoa pricing, galamsey, poor welfare of farmers, climate change, decline in cocoa production, and smuggling, but I am going to work with all of you to deal with these challenges and bring a boost to the sector,” Dr. Abbey said.
He also told the farmers that they would be the center of cocoa production in the country.
Dr. Abbey assured them of massive consultation to receive their input on any policy introduced in the sector to help improve the cocoa industry.
“My doors are always open for your suggestions and ideas to help improve the sector. The Ghanaian farmers are the backbone of Ghana’s cocoa, and Ghanaian farmers will be at the center of Ghana’s cocoa,” he added.
Nana Alhassan Bukari, who spoke on behalf of the Cocoa Coffee Sheanut Farmers Association, said the decline in cocoa production is a result of poor welfare for farmers, galamsey, and climate change.
He added that the farmers have confidence in the CEO to turn things around.
“After listening to your speech, one may think we were in bed last night before the meeting because all the things you said have been our headache, and we hope and pray you deliver on your mandate,” Mr. Bukari stated.
The farmers added that their meeting with Dr. Abbey is the first of its kind and promised him their full support.
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