Ghana launches $227.5m tree crop diversification project to boost cocoa sector

Accra, Ghana - Nov 7, 2024 - The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) Chief Executive, Joseph Boahen Aidoo, has stressed the importance of leveraging local expertise and sustainable practices in implementing the Ghana Tree Crop Diversification Project.

Project Aims to Transform Cocoa Sector

The project, scheduled to launch on November 7, seeks to enhance productivity, climate resilience, and production of cashew, coconut, and rubber, while supporting Ghana's cocoa sector transformation.

Key Components

- Utilizing local expertise for sustainability
- Strengthening COCOBOD's capacity for policy implementation
- Introducing innovative agricultural practices
- Rehabilitating CSSVD-affected farms
- Improving post-harvest management and market access

Beneficiary Districts

Three cocoa districts - Essam, Adabokrom (Western North Region), and Asamankese (Eastern Region) - have been selected for their potential impact.

New Laboratory for Cocoa Research

A fully equipped laboratory will be established for the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana (CRIG) to enhance research capabilities, particularly in tackling CSSVD.

Six-Year Project

The $227.5 million project, jointly implemented by COCOBOD and the Tree Crop Development Authority, aims to reduce Ghana's reliance on cocoa and boost the agricultural sector.

Partnership and Commitment

COCOBOD management has pledged full support for the project's implementation, ensuring a significant step forward for Ghana's agricultural landscape.

The Project Coordinator, Mr. Wahab Suleman presented the various components of the project, stressing the need to strengthen COCOBOD’s capacity to implement policies that promote sustainable development across the cocoa sector.

"In strengthening COCOBOD, the project will ensure that all stakeholders are well-equipped to contribute to the growth of the cocoa industry," he explained.

Source: Lead News Online