Dr. Ransford Anertey Abbey has been appointed the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) by His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana.
The appointment, effective January 21, 2025, was made in accordance with Article 195(1) of the Constitution and Section 12(2) of the Ghana Cocoa Board Act, 1984 (P.N.D.C.L. 81).
Dr. Abbey’s new role will involve overseeing COCOBOD’s operations as the board awaits the constitutionally required advice from its governing Board, provided in consultation with the Public Services Commission.
The appointment was formally communicated in a letter signed by Callistus Mahama, Ph.D., Secretary to the President. The letter, which extends the President’s best wishes, also congratulates Dr. Abbey on his new position. Key government officials and institutions, including the Vice President, the Chief of Staff, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, were copied on the correspondence.
COCOBOD, a critical institution in Ghana’s economy, is responsible for regulating the cocoa industry and promoting sustainable practices. Dr. Abbey’s leadership is expected to enhance the Board’s efforts in maintaining Ghana’s position as a leading producer of cocoa globally.
Stakeholders in the agricultural sector are optimistic about Dr. Abbey’s tenure, particularly regarding the advancement of policies to support cocoa farmers and boost the sector’s productivity. His acceptance of the appointment and subsequent strategy will be pivotal in ensuring the sustained growth of the cocoa industry.