The Board of Directors of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has resolved to forgo all sitting allowances for the remainder of the 2025/26 cocoa season, in a move designed to support ongoing financial reforms and restore stability within Ghana’s cocoa industry.
The decision was announced in a notice issued on February 20, 2026, as part of broader efforts to strengthen financial discipline and rebuild confidence across the cocoa value chain.
“In support of ongoing efforts to reform Ghana’s cocoa industry and strengthen its long-term sustainability, the Board of Directors of the Ghana Cocoa Board has resolved not to receive any sitting allowances for the remainder of the 2025/26 cocoa season,” the statement indicated.
According to the Board, the move reflects a commitment to prudent financial management, shared sacrifice, and responsible leadership at a time when the cocoa sector is facing significant structural and financial challenges.
The statement emphasised that COCOBOD is undertaking critical reforms aimed at addressing recent pressures while promoting transparency and efficiency within the organisation.
“This decision reflects the Board’s commitment to prudent financial management, shared sacrifice, and responsible leadership as COCOBOD undertakes critical reforms to address recent challenges and restore confidence across the cocoa value chain,” the notice added.
The waiver of sitting allowances follows an earlier announcement of salary reductions for Executive Management and Senior Staff as part of cost-containment measures.
In a separate press release dated February 16, 2026, COCOBOD revealed that Executive Management would take a 20 percent salary cut, while Senior Staff members agreed to a 10 percent reduction. The decision takes immediate effect and covers the remainder of the 2025/2026 crop year.
These measures are part of a broader restructuring effort aimed at stabilising operations amid production constraints and financial pressures that have affected the cocoa sector in recent seasons.
COCOBOD further reiterated its dedication to protecting the livelihoods of cocoa farmers while ensuring long-term sustainability for the industry.
“The Board reiterates its dedication to supporting measures that enhance efficiency, promote accountability, and safeguard the livelihoods of cocoa farmers, while working collaboratively with government and stakeholders to secure a resilient and sustainable future for Ghana’s cocoa industry,” the statement concluded.
Ghana remains one of the world’s leading cocoa producers, and the sector plays a critical role in the national economy. The latest measures by COCOBOD signal a deliberate effort to demonstrate leadership accountability while implementing reforms aimed at strengthening the industry’s financial health and long-term resilience.
