The Licensed Cocoa Buyers Association of Ghana (LICOBAG) has expressed concerns about what it calls excessive political interference at the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), warning that this trend threatens the sustainability of the country’s cocoa industry.
During a press conference in Accra at the Ghana International Press Centre on February 5, 2026, the Association highlighted that challenges facing the cocoa value chain, particularly at the post-harvest stage from the farm gate to the terminal, have reached a critical level that could lead to the industry’s collapse if urgent corrective actions are not implemented.
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Victus Dzah, the Executive Secretary representing LICOBAG, painted a grim picture of an institution that has lost its professional integrity due to increasing politicization.
“Since 2013, COCOBOD has become a haven for political appointees,” Dzah remarked, noting that an organization once renowned for its technical expertise and institutional knowledge has experienced a gradual decline in competence.
He pointed out that political influence, which was once confined to the Chief Executive, has now infiltrated various levels of the organization.
“In the past, only the Chief Executive was politically connected, but over time, the three Deputy Chief Executives have also become political appointees,” he explained.
LICOBAG indicated that the lack of job security within COCOBOD has created instability and diminished staff morale, undermining efficiency throughout the cocoa value chain.
“There is no longer job security in COCOBOD, as personnel changes occur at all levels, including drivers, whenever there is a change in government,” he stated.
In addition to institutional instability, LICOBAG linked the politicization of COCOBOD to a decline in service delivery, describing an environment characterized by low morale and compromised professionalism.
The Association emphasized that these governance issues are already impacting post-harvest operations, including purchasing, transportation, storage, and quality assurance, critical stages that affect Ghana’s reputation in the international cocoa market.
LICOBAG called for intentional reforms to protect COCOBOD from political control, restore professionalism, and ensure the long-term viability of Ghana’s cocoa industry, which is a vital part of the national economy and a key source of income for millions of farmers.
Source: Bugbila Moadow.
