The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has revised downwards cocoa production target for the 2024/2025 season by 19.8%. The initial projection of 810,000 metric tonnes has been adjusted to 650,000 metric tonnes.
This reflects the impact of the unprecedented dry spell that has particularly affected farmers in the Bono and Western North regions.
Chief Executive of COCOBOD Joseph Boahen Aidoo disclosed this when he announced the commencement of the new cocoa crop season on September 10, 2024, under a proposed self-financing plan.
“This unusual dry weather in West Africa has made conditions challenging; it may be cloudy, but significant rainfall has been absent,” Mr Aidoo stated.
Looking ahead, COCOBOD has set an ambitious goal to boost cocoa production by over 200,000 metric tonnes over the next six years with the CEO of COCOBOD highlighting ongoing initiatives to replace ageing trees that are no longer productive and emphasizing the importance of supporting farmers with fertilizers and technical assistance.
“For the first time in many years, COCOBOD has provided farmers with pruning services,” he noted, expressing optimism that these measures will yield substantial improvements in the medium term.
He reiterated the vital role of cocoa as a key economic driver for the nation, underscoring COCOBOD’s commitment to ensuring the sustainability and productivity of cocoa farms in Ghana.
Related posts:
$600m IMF cash will be advanced towards budget support – Ofori-Atta
Govt’s huge spending to blame for Ghana’s high inflation, not consumer behaviour
Ghana Tourism Authority sets $3b revenue target and 1.3m visitors this year
COCOBOD crawling, international banks running away from loan agreement – Minority leader
