In a renewed demonstration of its firm determination to curb illicit cocoa trading across Ghana’s borders, the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has introduced an enhanced reward scheme for individuals and informants who assist in the apprehension of cocoa smugglers.

Under the new arrangement, informants and anti-smuggling agents will receive one-third of the assessed value of any confiscated cocoa as their reward.

The initiative underscores COCOBOD’s continuous commitment to protecting the integrity of Ghana’s cocoa industry while ensuring that those who play active roles in safeguarding it are duly recognised and motivated.

The reward scheme is part of a broader national strategy to sustain the fight against cocoa smuggling, a menace that undermines the economic progress of the country and the livelihood of countless farmers.

By introducing the incentive structure, COCOBOD aims to encourage stronger public participation and vigilance, particularly among communities in border and hotspot areas where such illicit activities are most prevalent.

Additional step

Additionally, COCOBOD has, therefore, set up a 24-hour hotline number to encourage members of the public with credible information to contact the Special Anti-Smuggling Task Force.

All reports, the COCOBOD assured, would be treated with strict confidentiality, and rewards would be paid without undue delay.

COCOBOD reiterates its commitment to protecting the cocoa sector for the benefit of farmers, the economy and the future of Ghana’s cocoa industry.

Cocoa smuggling poses a serious socio-economic threat to Ghana’s development.

The illegal movement of cocoa beans across borders not only results in substantial loss of national revenue but also denies farmers and other value chain actors the full benefits of their labour. 

Each bag of cocoa smuggled represents a financial loss to the nation — money that could have been invested in rural infrastructure, extension services, research, and farmer welfare programmes.

At the national level, cocoa smuggling weakens the country’s foreign exchange earnings and distorts the market supply chain.

It disrupts the pricing and quality control systems that have helped Ghana maintain its reputation as a producer of premium cocoa on the international market.

The illegal trade also undermines COCOBOD’s ability to stabilise prices for farmers, as the diversion of beans across borders creates artificial shortages and puts undue pressure on domestic supply.

Beyond the immediate economic impact, the social consequences of cocoa smuggling are equally concerning.

In communities where smuggling becomes entrenched, it often fuels corruption, erodes trust and compromises the moral fabric of society.

Smuggling syndicates sometimes exploit vulnerable youth and transport workers, drawing them into dangerous and illegal activities that can lead to arrests, imprisonment or even violent confrontations.

The practice also discourages honest farmers who see their hard-earned produce unfairly devalued by illegal trade, thereby weakening productivity and morale within the farming community.

Backbone

For decades, the cocoa industry has been the backbone of Ghana’s economy, providing employment and income for millions of households.

Preserving this vital sector requires collective vigilance and a shared sense of responsibility. COCOBOD, therefore, calls on all citizens, particularly those living along the country’s borders, to actively support the campaign against cocoa smuggling.