COCOBOD pledges steady fertilizer supply to boost cocoa yields  

GHANA – The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has reiterated its commitment to ensuring a consistent and timely supply of fertilizers to cocoa farmers across the country in a bid to enhance productivity and sustain the growth of the cocoa sector. 

According to COCOBOD’s Head of Public Affairs, Jerome K. Sam, timely access to fertilizers and other farm inputs is vital for increasing yields and supporting farmers’ livelihoods.  

Representing the Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Randy Abbey, Jerome emphasized that the board remains focused on addressing farmers’ concerns and ensuring their needs are met. 

“We have taken all their concerns. As major stakeholders, it’s our duty to compile their grievances and ensure they are addressed,” he stated. 

Jerome further highlighted the government’s continued efforts to strengthen collaboration with stakeholders to enhance cocoa production.  

“They raised issues bordering their work, for instance, they called on government to supply more fertilizers to them—something COCOBOD is already working to achieve,” he added. 

The assurance follows the recent announcement of a new increase in the fixed farmgate price for cocoa farmers, marking the second adjustment this year.  

Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson revealed that farmers will now earn 58,000 cedis (US$4,640) per metric ton, up from 51,660 cedis. The new rate translates to 3,625 cedis per 64-kilogram bag, effective immediately. 

Forson explained that the earlier price set in August was based on projected global prices and exchange rates. The latest review represents a 12% increase, aimed at curbing cocoa smuggling into neighboring countries offering higher farmgate prices. 

Ghana targets cocoa output of 650,000 metric tons for the 2025/26 crop year, up from 600,000 tons the previous season. 

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