The Board of Directors of Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has embarked on a working visit to its warehouse facilities in Tema, with the aim of gaining firsthand insight into the organisation’s operational processes, storage systems, and logistics.
Led by Board Chairman, Hon. Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, the visit formed part of efforts by the current board to deepen its understanding of the challenges confronting the authority’s logistics and quality assurance divisions, and to develop targeted interventions that will sustain the international reputation of Ghana’s cocoa.
During an interactive session with staff, several pressing concerns were raised, particularly regarding the condition of COCOBOD’s laboratories and their capacity to meet the demands of modern quality control standards.
COCOBOD operates a comprehensive suite of laboratories, including:
A Metro Laboratory
A Pesticide Residue Lab
A Heavy Metal Testing Lab
A Micro-toxin Analysis Lab
A Lab for Monitoring Acid Levels
A Microbiology Lab
A Fine Flavour Testing Lab
A Quality Assurance Unit
Staff highlighted serious challenges with outdated and insufficient laboratory equipment, inadequate office space, and the urgent need to upgrade computing systems. Additionally, many offices lack basic furniture, and several labs are in dire need of refurbishment to enhance food safety standards.
Beyond the laboratories, broader logistical concerns were identified. These included poor drainage systems, deteriorating warehouse structures, and the absence of security infrastructure such as CCTV cameras. Transport challenges also featured prominently, with staff requesting additional pick-up vehicles to support field operations. The current internet infrastructure was described as inadequate and unreliable.
Responding to the concerns, Hon. Samuel Ofosu Ampofo acknowledged the gravity of the issues raised, stating that they were consistent with matters previously brought before the Board and highlighted during a recent visit by the Chief Executive Officer.
“Ghana cocoa is held in high esteem. In order to maintain that, we must pay special attention to sector operations. Quality assurance is key,” Mr. Ampofo stressed.
He explained that the purpose of the visit was not only to inspect the facilities but to “listen to the challenges of management in order to find solutions—addressing weaknesses and threats while taking advantage of opportunities.”
He assured staff that some of the issues raised had already been discussed at the board level and action was underway. He also advocated for a portion of internally generated revenue to be reinvested into operational support.
The Board Chairman pledged the organisation’s commitment to revamping its ICT systems and providing modern security installations, noting that such measures are essential for the continued credibility and competitiveness of Ghana’s cocoa industry on the global market.
By Victor Ablormeti
