 CEO is facing growing public criticism following reports that the institution is considering sponsoring the Ghana Premier League at a time many cocoa farmers say they are struggling under worsening economic conditions.){kind=link}
The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) CEO is facing growing public criticism following reports that the institution is considering sponsoring the Ghana Premier League at a time many cocoa farmers say they are struggling under worsening economic conditions.
Stakeholders in the cocoa sector, including farmer associations, argue that COCOBOD appears to be diverting attention from its primary mandate of safeguarding the welfare of cocoa farmers and ensuring the sustainability of the cocoa industry. According to them, any move to channel resources into sports sponsorship, however well-intentioned, raises serious questions about priorities and stewardship.
Cocoa farmers across the country are grappling with challenges such as late payment of cocoa premiums, delayed supply of fertilizers and agrochemicals, rising cost of labour, and the continuous threat of cocoa-related diseases. Many believe these concerns should take precedence over corporate image-boosting initiatives.
“It is shocking that COCOBOD would consider spending money on football sponsorship when farmers are struggling to break even,” a representative of a major cocoa farmers’ cooperative said. “We are not against sports, but this cannot come at the expense of the very people whose sweat keeps the cocoa sector alive.”
Supporters of the proposed sponsorship, however, argue that it could enhance COCOBOD’s visibility and connection with the broader Ghanaian public. They claim that the initiative could form part of long-term brand positioning while opening opportunities for corporate partnerships.
But opponents insist that until cocoa farmers receive improved conditions, timely assistance, and greater financial cushioning, COCOBOD has no justification for committing resources to non-core activities.