- COCOBOD reduces cocoa target by 19.8%.
- Target revised from 810,000 to 650,000 metric tonnes.
- Plans to boost production by 200,000 metric tonnes.
- Old trees to be replaced to improve yield.
The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has announced a downward revision of its target for the new cocoa crop season, which commences today.
The target has been reduced by 19.8 percent due to the severe dry spell experienced this year.
According to Joseph Boahen Aidoo, Chief Executive of COCOBOD, the harsh weather conditions have negatively impacted farmers in the Bono and Western North regions.
As a result, many farmers have struggled to have a successful planting season, leading to the revised target.
Initially, COCOBOD had projected a target of 810,000 metric tonnes for the new crop season.
However, due to the unprecedented dry spell, the target has been revised downward to 650,000 metric tonnes.
The unusual dry spell in the West African sub-region has been cited as the primary reason for the reduction.
Despite the challenges, COCOBOD has plans in place to boost production in the next six years.
The Board aims to produce over 200,000 metric tonnes of cocoa beans through various initiatives, including replacing old trees that are unable to flower.
Mr. Boahen Aidoo expressed optimism that the measures outlined will yield positive results in the medium term, benefiting cocoa farmers and the industry as a whole.
