Cocoa farmers throughout the nation have characterized the selection of Dr. Randy Abbey as the Acting CEO of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) as unconventional. Nevertheless, they hold the view that his leadership may facilitate the necessary transformation within the cocoa sector.
The industry is currently facing several challenges, including decreasing production levels, smuggling issues, and pricing dilemmas, which stakeholders assert demand bold and decisive interventions.
In an interview, Obed Owusu-Addai, a cocoa farmer and Co-Convener of the Ghana Civil Society Cocoa Platform, who is also a Co-founder of EcoCare Ghana, conveyed a sense of cautious optimism regarding Dr. Abbey’s appointment.
“We perceive Dr. Randy Abbey’s appointment as unconventional; however, at times, an outsider can provide a fresh perspective essential for driving change, and it is evident that the cocoa sector is in need of transformation,” he stated.
He further emphasized the necessity for leadership that is receptive and engages with relevant stakeholders.
“The sector requires a bold, clear, and decisive strategy, so perhaps he will introduce this viewpoint into the industry, but it is crucial for him to be a CEO who listens,” he remarked.
The farmers are urging the new Acting CEO to prioritize collaboration with stakeholders to tackle the urgent issues afflicting the industry and to restore confidence in Ghana’s cocoa sector.
In addition, cocoa farmers are appealing to the newly appointed Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, to promptly implement reforms aimed at streamlining the operations of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD). This appeal arises in light of escalating concerns regarding a substantial increase in administrative costs at COCOBOD, juxtaposed with a decline in cocoa production.
