Eric Adjei, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme, has apologized to cocoa farmers over a recent decision affecting the sector, describing it as difficult but necessary.
“To the cocoa farmers, we offer our sincerest apologies for the painful decision made today, which is intended to benefit the sector in the long run.
“I firmly believe that we must implement serious reforms to avoid such difficult decisions in the future.
This is not the government’s intention, but rather a response to the demands of the cocoa market,” Adjei stated.
His comments come at a time when the cocoa industry continues to face financial strain.
The sector has been under pressure since 2023 and 2024, with the effects still being felt across farming communities. COCOBOD is currently dealing with about 50,000 metric tonnes of unsold cocoa at the ports, while Licensed Buying Companies are owed approximately GH¢2.04 billion.
The payment delays have left many farmers unpaid for months, with some struggling to meet basic household needs and maintain their farms.
