Russian government responsible for cocoa smuggling in Africa - COCOBOD CEO

The Chief Executive of Ghana Cocobod, Joseph Boahen Aidoo, has disclosed that the government is intensifying efforts to combat cocoa smuggling across Ghana’s borders.

This special anti-cocoa smuggling initiative will be led by the Ghana Armed Forces.

Speaking to the media in Kumasi on Friday, Aidoo stated that COCOBOD is overwhelmed by the increasing cases of cocoa smuggling.

“We have written to the Minister of Defense, requesting military intervention. While the police and other security forces have been assisting, there have already been several arrests related to cocoa smuggling. Recently, cocoa being transported out of the country in tankers meant for fuel was intercepted,” he said.

Aidoo stressed that military involvement is now necessary to address the issue more effectively. “The military has expressed readiness to lead the operation, and the Ministry of Defense is fully aware. Cocobod will sponsor the national Anti-Cocoa Smuggling Program,” he added.

The Cocobod CEO explained that this intensified exercise is crucial for safeguarding Ghana’s cocoa export industry and ensuring the country meets its international export targets.

“Cocoa is the backbone of Ghana’s economy. It brings in the foreign exchange needed to support our balance of payments. We cannot afford to lose our cocoa exports, especially since we heavily support local farmers,” Aidoo emphasized.

He also noted that the government, through Cocobod, provides substantial support to cocoa farmers.

“This year, we supplied more than enough fertilizers, such as liquid fertilizer, insecticides, and fungicides. Cocobod also funded the pruning of cocoa farms. If cocoa is smuggled out of the country, how are we going to repay the loans we took to invest in our farmers?” he questioned.

Aidoo went on to disclose a concerning development in cocoa smuggling, attributing the issue to the Russian government. He explained that the Russian military group Wagner, stationed in Burkina Faso, Niger, and other Francophone countries, is involved in buying smuggled cocoa from Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire.

He disclosed, “Russia has been banned from entering the European market, which has led them to resort to smuggling cocoa. Countries like Burkina Faso and Niger, which do not grow cocoa, are now exporting cocoa. Where are they getting it from?” he asked.

He expressed confidence that military intervention, as part of the national Anti-Cocoa Smuggling initiative, would help curb the problem.

He also assured that the government is committed to protecting the cocoa sector and will do everything possible to prevent its collapse.

Aidoo also highlighted that the measures put in place to boost cocoa production are expected to yield positive results from next year, benefiting both the government and local farmers.

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