Accra, Ghana – The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has received high commendation from the World Bank’s Project Implementation Support Mission for what has been described as “remarkable progress” under the ongoing Tree Crop Diversification Project (TCDP). This positive assessment emerged from three days of crucial planning meetings in Accra, co-led by COCOBOD’s Deputy Chief Executive, Dr. Francis Baah, and Dr. Ashwini Sebatien from the World Bank, focused on accelerating project outcomes and resolving any implementation challenges.
A key highlight of COCOBOD’s achievements applauded by the World Bank was the successful commencement of the rehabilitation phase for cocoa farms, specifically targeting the restoration of areas affected by the devastating Cocoa Swollen Shoot Virus Disease (CSSVD) in critical regions such as Adabokrom, Essam, and Asamankese.
This initiative is crucial for restoring productivity in Ghana’s vital cocoa sector, which has been significantly impacted by the spread of the virus. Further recognition was given to the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana (CRIG) for its groundbreaking research documentation on CSSVD, an effort deemed essential in finding sustainable solutions to combat the widespread disease and safeguard the future of cocoa farming.
The TCDP, a flagship initiative designed not only to bolster cocoa production but also to diversify Ghana’s agricultural base into other promising tree crops, is being implemented jointly by COCOBOD and the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA).
The project benefits from substantial financial backing from both the World Bank and the Government of Ghana, underscoring a shared commitment to enhancing the resilience and profitability of the country’s tree crop sector. This collaborative effort aims to improve farmer incomes, enhance food security, and create new economic opportunities through the sustainable development of various tree crops.
The World Bank’s endorsement signals confidence in COCOBOD’s strategic approach and the broader project’s potential to deliver lasting positive impacts on Ghana’s agricultural landscape.
Sankofaonline
