COCOBOD releases GH¢2.6bn to pay cocoa farmers across Ghana

The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has disbursed GH¢2.6 billion to Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs) to enable the prompt payment of cocoa farmers for purchases made across the country’s cocoa-growing regions.

In a statement, COCOBOD said about GH¢1.4 billion of the amount has been earmarked to settle outstanding payments owed to farmers whose cocoa beans were purchased on credit.

The Board noted that since the beginning of the 2025/26 cocoa season, it has released a cumulative GH¢34.52 billion to Licensed Buying Companies for onward payment to cocoa farmers.

“Of the GH¢2.6 billion released today, approximately GH¢1.4 billion has been allocated to clear the remaining balances owed by LBCs to cocoa farmers for cocoa purchased on credit,” the statement said.

COCOBOD stated that it is collaborating closely with the Licensed Buying Companies to ensure that all affected farmers receive the payments due them without delay.

It added that monitoring systems have been established to ensure the funds are distributed only to farmers who are legitimately entitled to the payments.

The Board thanked cocoa farmers for their patience, resilience and understanding during the payment delays, assuring them that every farmer who sold cocoa through the approved purchasing system would receive the full amount owed.

COCOBOD also advised farmers with outstanding payments to contact the Licensed Buying Company through which they sold their produce, noting that arrangements are being made to clear all pending obligations.

According to the Board, the release of the funds reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding the livelihoods of cocoa farmers while maintaining the credibility and stability of Ghana’s cocoa industry.

COCOBOD reaffirmed its dedication to protecting the interests of cocoa farmers and strengthening the country’s cocoa value chain.

It also expressed appreciation to farmers for their continued contribution to the national economy, pledging to work with the government and other industry stakeholders to enhance farmer welfare and promote the long-term sustainability of Ghana’s cocoa sector.

The Board said it would continue collaborating with key stakeholders to improve the cocoa value chain, support cocoa producers and secure the future of the industry.