Dr. Randy Abbey, the newly appointed CEO of Ghana COCOBOD, has pledged to address the critical challenges facing Ghana’s cocoa sector. Speaking to a farmers’ group in Accra after assuming office, Dr. Abbey highlighted his awareness of pressing issues such as cocoa pricing, galamsey, poor farmer welfare, climate change, declining cocoa production, and smuggling. He assured farmers of his commitment to engaging them in finding sustainable solutions to revitalize the sector.
“I am aware of the problems the sector is going through and have also read about them. I will work with all of you to deal with these challenges and bring a boost to the sector. My doors are always open for your suggestions and ideas,” Dr. Abbey emphasized. He promised to prioritize farmers’ welfare and ensure they play a central role in policy formulation to improve Ghana’s cocoa production. Farmers welcomed his assurance, hailing the meeting as historic and pledging their full support.
Nana Alhassan Bukari, speaking on behalf of the Cocoa, Coffee, and Shea Nut Farmers Association, attributed the decline in cocoa production to challenges such as poor farmer welfare, galamsey, and climate change. He expressed confidence in Dr. Abbey’s leadership, stating, “Your remarks reflect our concerns, and we hope and pray you deliver on your mandate.” The meeting ended with farmers expressing optimism about Dr. Abbey’s plans and readiness to work together to transform the cocoa sector.
