Prominent journalist and sports administrator Randy Abbey has alleged that the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) failed to deliver more than 330,000 tonnes of cocoa during the 2023/2024 crop season, raising fresh concerns about the operational and financial challenges confronting Ghana’s cocoa sector.
Speaking on the performance of the cocoa regulator, Abbey described the situation as deeply troubling, warning that the shortfall has significant implications for Ghana’s credibility on the international commodities market.
Massive Supply Shortfall Raises Red Flags
According to Abbey, the inability to meet contractual supply obligations during the 2023/24 season reflects deeper structural and production challenges within the sector. He suggested that the shortfall may have affected forward sales agreements and revenue inflows, putting additional strain on COCOBOD’s finances.
The alleged failure to deliver over 330,000 tonnes represents a substantial gap in projected output and contracted exports, potentially undermining Ghana’s long-standing reputation as one of the world’s leading cocoa producers.
Production Challenges and Sector Pressures
Ghana’s cocoa industry has in recent years grappled with multiple challenges, including adverse weather conditions, disease outbreaks, smuggling, and the impact of illegal mining activities on farmlands.
Industry analysts note that production declines have ripple effects across the value chain — from farmer incomes to foreign exchange earnings and government revenue.
Abbey’s comments add to growing public scrutiny over COCOBOD’s performance and management decisions during a period marked by financial constraints and debt restructuring discussions.
Calls for Transparency and Accountability
The claims have intensified calls for greater transparency in the reporting of cocoa production figures, export commitments, and financial management within COCOBOD.
Observers argue that restoring confidence in the sector will require not only addressing production bottlenecks but also strengthening oversight and accountability mechanisms to ensure sustainable growth.
While COCOBOD is yet to publicly respond to the specific claims, the issue is expected to feature prominently in ongoing national conversations about reforms within Ghana’s cocoa industry.
