Agona swedru: The government has elevated the Central Regional COCOBOD office from a managerial level to directorship to enhance cooperation, collaboration, and coordination of cocoa operations, thereby increasing annual production.
According to Ghana News Agency, the newly promoted Central Regional COCOBOD office at Agona Swedru in the Agona West Municipality has broadened stakeholder engagements in the cocoa sector. This initiative aims to gather key players to ensure that government-outlined policies and programs become effective for improved cocoa yields.
Mr. Samuel Addo Agyakwa, the Central Regional Director of the Ghana Cocoa Board, revealed this development at Agona Swedru. He stated that the current government, upon assuming office, decided to expand the cocoa sector in the region to enhance the living standards of farmers. As part of these expansion efforts, directors have been posted to all cocoa regions across the country to engage key divisions in the sector, thereby championing new policies to enhance industry operations.
Mr. Agyakwa explained that the Board's operations begin with the Seed Production Unit (SPU), which supplies seeds to farmers. The cocoa health extension division also supports production activities. The new director emphasized the importance of the agronomist Division of COCOBOD in providing technical advice for proper coordination, while the Quality Control office ensures the grading of beans to reduce chemicals and ensure higher quality seeds.
He further noted that the European Union De-Afforestation Regulation aims to limit cocoa farms to 15 acres, encouraging farmers to increase yields through proper coordination. COCOBOD has adopted comprehensive plans to regulate farm acreage with effective monitoring and support to boost production.
Mr. Agyakwa mentioned that the government is committed to providing free fertilizers, chemicals, and other inputs to motivate farmers. COCOBOD is also assisting absentee farmers, encouraging them to maintain their farms regularly. Additionally, support is being offered to well-established farmers to help those unable to maintain their farms become productive.
The Director added that COCOBOD plans to invest in abandoned farms to resuscitate them. Efforts are underway to entice young graduates with support and inputs to enter cocoa farming, attracting youngsters into the sector. Furthermore, a strategic plan is in place to encourage elites with substantial capital to invest in the cocoa sector.
Mr. Agyakwa concluded that these measures are part of the government's determination to revamp the industry, enabling the nation to earn more foreign exchange and improving farmers' livelihoods.