The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has invested GH¢942 million in rehabilitating aged and diseased cocoa farms to increase national production in the short to medium term. The funds were used to cut down diseased and aged cocoa trees, nurse and plant seedlings, and maintain rehabilitated farms before handing them over to farmers.

Chief Executive Officer Joseph Boahen Aidoo defended the investment, stating that it was necessary to sustain the livelihoods of affected farmers and increase cocoa production. He explained that the GH¢943 million expense was part of the administrative cost, which included productivity enhancement programs.

The rehabilitation program aims to revive cocoa production, which has been affected by the swollen shoot virus disease (SSVD) and extreme weather conditions. COCOBOD is working to increase production, with some rehabilitated farms expected to contribute to national output next season.

CEO Aidoo assured farmers of an adequate and timely supply of inputs next season and pledged to invest in reducing challenges impeding their work. He highlighted COCOBOD’s hand pollination, pruning, and irrigation schemes as efforts to increase production and make cocoa farming more attractive to youth.

Deputy CEO Ray Ankrah reported that COCOBOD made a GH¢2.3 billion profit last year, compared to a GH¢4.2 billion loss in 2022. He attributed the turnaround to prudent measures and assured farmers of better policies and programs next season.

The investment in cocoa farm rehabilitation demonstrates COCOBOD’s commitment to supporting farmers and ensuring the sustainability of the cocoa industry. With the expected increase in production and improved support for farmers, Ghana’s cocoa sector is poised for growth and development.