- COCOBOD CEO Dr. Ransford Abbey says road construction isn't part of COCOBOD's core mandate
- Emphasizes focus on cocoa production, farmer support, and industry sustainability
- They blames past road projects for diverting funds and creating GH¢21 billion debt
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), Dr. Ransford Abbey, has clarified that road construction does not fall within the core mandate of the Board. He emphasized that COCOBOD’s primary focus should remain on sustaining cocoa production and supporting farmers.
During a working visit to Assin Dawomako in the Central Region, Dr. Abbey pointed out that the responsibility for road infrastructure lies with the Ministry of Roads and Highways, not COCOBOD.
He criticized the Board’s past involvement in road projects, arguing that it has diverted crucial resources away from its fundamental responsibilities.
“Our main mandate is to finance cocoa purchases, provide inputs, boost production, maintain quality, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the cocoa industry. Diverting funds to road construction has significantly contributed to our current financial difficulties,” he stated.
Dr. Abbey disclosed that contracts under the second phase of the Cocoa Roads Improvement Programme (CRIP II), awarded by the previous administration and denominated in U.S. dollars, have resulted in a debt of GH¢21 billion.
This debt, he said, has placed a considerable financial strain on COCOBOD, which is now undergoing restructuring efforts.
He also assured cocoa farmers that steps are being taken to address the ongoing threat of illegal mining on cocoa farmlands, which poses a serious risk to the future of the industry.
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