Dr. Ransford Abbey Assures Commitment to Cocoa Sector Development and Farmers’ Welfare
Dr. Ransford Abbey, the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), has emphasized his strong commitment to improving the livelihoods of cocoa farmers and advancing the development of Ghana’s vital cocoa industry.
Prioritizing Farmers in Policy Development
During an interview with Channel One TV’s Charles Owusu Kumi in Parliament on Tuesday, Dr. Abbey reiterated his dedication to fulfilling President John Dramani Mahama’s vision for the cocoa sector. He emphasized the central role that farmers will play in policy formulation and implementation, a key aspect of the government’s broader agenda for agricultural growth.
Hands-On Leadership Approach
As part of his leadership style, Dr. Abbey revealed that he has already initiated direct engagements with cocoa farmers, further signaling his commitment to a hands-on approach to addressing the sector’s challenges. “All we will bring on board will be hard work and strong leadership,” he affirmed, outlining his strategy for delivering on the President’s vision for the cocoa industry.
Addressing Challenges in the Cocoa Sector
Ghana, as the world’s second-largest producer of cocoa, faces numerous challenges, including low prices for cocoa beans, limited access to essential farming inputs, and the impacts of climate change on production. Dr. Abbey acknowledged these pressing issues and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts with stakeholders to find sustainable solutions.
Fostering Strong Partnerships for Sector Growth
Dr. Abbey’s proactive stance reflects his belief in building strong partnerships with farmers and stakeholders alike. He outlined his plan to engage further with farmers to better understand their challenges, intending to improve their productivity and welfare. His leadership will focus on creating lasting solutions to strengthen the sector’s resilience and future growth.
With this hands-on leadership and a focus on inclusivity, Dr. Abbey is poised to drive significant improvements in Ghana’s cocoa industry, ensuring that cocoa farmers are at the heart of all policy decisions.