Government Plans GH₵30 Billion Domestic Bond to Boost COCOBOD Operations

A member of Parliament’s Finance Committee, Atta Issah, has revealed that the government intends to mobilise approximately GH₵30 billion through a syndicated domestic bond to support the operations of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD).

In an interview with Citi News on Thursday, February 19, 2026, Issah explained that the funds will be used to reinforce COCOBOD’s working capital and help stabilise the cocoa industry.

He noted that working capital is a key driver of operational financing, adding that if the Bank of Ghana and the Ministry of Finance act as equity stakeholders, they would be expected to contribute to the funding structure.

According to him, the initiative is part of a broader strategy to reduce Ghana’s reliance on international borrowing, which he described as frequently unfavourable. He added that government guarantees will support the issuance of syndicated domestic bonds — an approach he said is commonly used in countries such as Ivory Coast and elsewhere.

Meanwhile, COCOBOD has announced that its Board of Directors will forgo sitting allowances for the remainder of the 2025/26 cocoa season to support ongoing reforms.

In a public notice, the Board said the decision reflects its commitment to strengthening the cocoa sector and ensuring long-term sustainability. Members agreed to suspend their allowances as part of efforts to promote prudent financial management, shared sacrifice, and responsible leadership.

The Board reaffirmed its dedication to improving efficiency, enhancing accountability, and protecting the livelihoods of cocoa farmers nationwide. It also pledged continued collaboration with government and stakeholders to secure a resilient and sustainable future for Ghana’s cocoa industry.