COCOBOD begins nationwide sensitisation on Free Fertiliser and Agro-Inputs Programme
The Ghana Cocoa Board, COCOBOD, has commenced farmer sensitisation engagements across cocoa-growing communities to educate farmers on the reintroduced Free Fertiliser and Agro-Inputs Programme and other key reforms designed to improve productivity and ensure the long-term sustainability of Ghana’s cocoa sector.
The outreach forms part of COCOBOD’s renewed commitment to direct engagement with farmers and to ensure that new policies and interventions are well understood at the farm level.
Speaking at community engagements in Aiyinase in the Western Region and Huni Valley, the Deputy Head of Public Affairs, Benjamin Teye Larweh, assured farmers that COCOBOD remains committed to addressing their concerns and providing timely information. He said the Board is rolling out measures to strengthen the cocoa industry and improve farmer livelihoods. “COCOBOD is with you. We are here to listen, to inform you, and to implement measures that will strengthen the industry for all of us,” Mr. Larweh told farmers.
He urged farmers to rely on official COCOBOD communication channels for accurate updates and to avoid misinformation that could undermine the programme. He added that the Board will continue to hold regular interactions to bridge the gap between management and farmers.
The National Coordinator of CODAPEC, Mr. Abu Seidu, also addressed farmers on the details of the Free Fertiliser and Agro-Inputs Programme. He took participants through the eligibility criteria, distribution arrangements, and implementation guidelines.
According to Mr. Seidu, only registered farmers with productive cocoa farms will qualify to benefit under the revised programme. He explained that the registration database will be used to track distribution and ensure inputs are delivered directly to verified beneficiaries.
He noted that the revised approach is designed to promote transparency, efficiency, and accountability in the delivery of inputs. “We do not want a situation where inputs meant for cocoa farmers end up elsewhere. This new system ensures that the right farmer, with the right farm, receives the right support at the right time,” he said.
Farmers at the engagements raised questions on the timing of input delivery, farm rehabilitation, and access to extension services. COCOBOD officials responded that efforts are being made to align distribution with the cocoa calendar to maximise impact.
The sensitisation exercises will continue in other cocoa-growing regions in the coming weeks. COCOBOD said the engagements form part of the Board’s commitment to empowering farmers with accurate information, boosting cocoa productivity, and building a resilient and sustainable cocoa sector that remains the backbone of Ghana’s economy.
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