The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has announced the release of GH¢2.6 billion to Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs) to facilitate payments to cocoa farmers across all cocoa-growing regions in the country.
According to a press release issued by COCOBOD’s Public Affairs Department on July 2, 2026, the funds are intended to ensure that cocoa farmers receive payments for cocoa purchases made during the ongoing 2025/26 crop season.
The Board disclosed that since the beginning of the current crop season, it has disbursed a total of GH¢34.52 billion to Licensed Buying Companies for onward payment to farmers nationwide.
Out of the newly released GH¢2.6 billion, approximately GH¢1.4 billion has been specifically earmarked to clear outstanding balances owed by some LBCs to farmers for cocoa purchases made on credit.
COCOBOD assured farmers and the general public that it is working closely with the Licensed Buying Companies to ensure that all affected farmers receive their monies without delay.
“The Board has also instituted monitoring mechanisms to ensure that the funds reach the farmers who are owed,” the statement noted.
The cocoa regulator acknowledged the patience, resilience and understanding demonstrated by cocoa farmers during what it described as a challenging period for the sector.
COCOBOD further assured farmers that no cocoa farmer would be denied payment for cocoa beans legitimately sold through the approved cocoa purchasing system.
Farmers who are yet to receive payment for their produce have been advised to engage directly with the Licensed Buying Companies through which they sold their cocoa for prompt resolution of any outstanding issues.
The Board reiterated its commitment to working with all stakeholders within the cocoa value chain to ensure the full settlement of all outstanding obligations owed to farmers.
According to COCOBOD, the release of the GH¢2.6 billion reflects government’s commitment to protecting the welfare of cocoa farmers while safeguarding the integrity and sustainability of Ghana’s cocoa industry.
The Board stressed that protecting the interests of cocoa farmers remains a top priority, adding that efforts would continue to ensure that farmers enjoy the full benefits of their hard work and contribution to the national economy.
COCOBOD also expressed appreciation to cocoa farmers across the country for their continued dedication and invaluable contribution to Ghana’s economy.
The Board pledged to continue collaborating with Government and industry stakeholders to strengthen the cocoa value chain, improve farmer welfare and ensure the long-term sustainability of Ghana’s cocoa sector.
By 1960news.com
