The Minister for Finance, Dr. Ato Forson, is scheduled to address the nation on Thursday, February 12, 2026, regarding a comprehensive restructuring of the cocoa sector. This announcement follows a high-level emergency Cabinet meeting convened to address the deepening liquidity crisis at the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD). The government aims to restore financial stability and ensure the long-term viability of Ghana’s primary agricultural export.
According to government spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the plan by Ato Forson will focus on resolving the persistent delays in payments to cocoa farmers. Many farmers have reported significant financial distress after delivering cocoa beans without receiving payment since late 2025. The new measures are expected to facilitate expedited payments to settle all outstanding arrears owed to these essential workers.
The proposed reforms by Ato Forson are being described as the most “drastic” in the history of the sector. Beyond immediate financial relief, the restructuring will target structural inefficiencies within COCOBOD to prevent future debt accumulation. Ato Forson is expected to outline a new framework that shifts the focus from exporting raw beans to increasing domestic value-added production.
- COCOBOD Releases GH¢4.2 Billion to Clear Outstanding Cocoa Farmers’ Arrears
- COCOBOD Assures Farmers of No Further Cocoa Price Cuts for 2026 Season
- COCOBOD Board waives sitting allowances to support restoring stability and confidence in the cocoa sector
- COCOBOD Slashes Executive and Senior Staff Salaries Amid 2026 Revenue Strain
- Minority Urges Dismissal of COCOBOD CEO Randy Abbey Following Cocoa Price Reduction
This intervention comes at a time when the cocoa industry is facing challenges from fluctuating global prices and high operational costs. Ato Forson has previously indicated that the government is committed to protecting the livelihoods of millions of rural farmers. The Thursday address will provide much-needed clarity on the specific financial and administrative changes being implemented by the Ministry of Finance.
Industry stakeholders are optimistic that the plan by Ato Forson will improve transparency and accountability within the sector’s governance. The Ghana Cocoa Board Act may also undergo amendments to strictly limit the agency to its core mandate of productivity enhancement. Ato Forson remains a central figure in the administration’s strategy to “reset” the economy for sustainable growth and job creation.
Tuntum Network will provide a professional live update on the full details of the speech delivered by Ato Forson on Thursday. The nation remains attentive as the government seeks to safeguard the future of the cocoa industry. Stay tuned to our platform for more in-depth analysis of these monumental economic reforms.
