Ghana's COCOBOD Relaunches Free Fertilizer Programme to Boost Cocoa Sector

The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has relaunched its Free Fertilizer Distribution programme in Sefwi Wiawso, Western North region, as part of the government's Reset Agenda to revitalize the cocoa sector. The programme, themed "Cocoa Sector Reset: Free Fertilizer for Increased Productivity and Improved Farmer Income", aims to provide free fertilizer to cocoa farmers, replacing the previous 50% government subsidy arrangement. COCOBOD has procured 3.5 million bags of granular fertilizer nationwide.

Under the programme, about 1.5 million bags of fertilizer have already been distributed in the initial rollout, targeting local districts including Sefwi Boako, Juaboso, and Bibiani. The Cocoa Management System (CMS) will manage the programme to prevent smuggling, favoritism, and diversion to open markets. Farmers must verify their identity using a Ghana Card, farmer ID, or biometrics, and allocations are automatically calculated based on mapped farm sizes.

The initiative promises increased allowances for cocoa mass spraying gangs, distribution of spraying machines, and other farm maintenance inputs. COCOBOD Chief Executive Dr. Randy Abbey stated that moving from a 50% subsidy to free inputs is part of broader reforms to revitalize the cocoa sector and raise farmer incomes. He warned against smugglers and saboteurs, assuring that any officer, buyer, or individual found diverting, hoarding, reselling, or smuggling these inputs will be dealt with according to the law.

Dr. Abbey also announced that COCOBOD has adopted an aggressive strategy to address the threats of Cacao Swollen Shoot disease (CCVD), a destructive plant disease that infects cocoa trees and reduces production by 15 to 70 percent. Additionally, he announced that COCOBOD will roll out a scholarship programme for wards of cocoa farmers, effective the 2027/28 academic year. The programme aims to support cocoa farmers and improve their livelihoods.

The Chairman of COCOBOD Board, Dr. Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, added that the government has renewed its commitment to directly support cocoa farmers by supplying about 27,000 new pneumatic and motorised spraying machines this year, bringing the national fleet to roughly 67,000 machines. These machines will be supported by 5.7 million litres of pre-mixed fuel to help cocoa farmers improve yields and earnings.

Dr. Ofosu-Ampofo also announced that 1.8 million litres of liquid fertilizers and 2.3 million litres of insecticides and fungicide have been provided. Furthermore, 89,000 PPEs, including Wellington boots, overall coats, overcoat, respirators, and goggles, have been provided for all Chief farmers. New laws have been passed to protect farmers and the cocoa industry, requiring COCOBOD permission and approval before cocoa trees are cut down.

Regional Minister Gilbert Petty Bentum, Chief farmer Nana Kwesi Fori, and Acting President of the Sefwi Wiawso Traditional Council, Nana Ofori Ahenkan II, have expressed support for the initiative, commending COCOBOD for recognising the role of farmers and supporting them through the programme and other incentives. The programme is expected to relieve farmers of costs, which can be channelled to other needs, and improve cocoa production in Ghana.

Key points

• COCOBOD procured 3.5 million bags of granular fertilizer nationwide.
• The programme aims to prevent smuggling, favoritism, and diversion to open markets through the Cocoa Management System (CMS).
• The initiative promises increased allowances for cocoa mass spraying gangs, distribution of spraying machines, and other farm maintenance inputs.