Dr. Ransford Anertey Abbey, a prominent figure in Ghana’s sports and media landscape, has been appointed as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD). His appointment was formally announced in a letter dated January 21, 2025, signed by Callistus Mahama, Ph.D., Secretary to the President.
The letter, issued under the authority of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, stated that the appointment is in accordance with Article 195(1) of the Constitution and Section 12(2) of the Ghana Cocoa Board Act, 1984 (P.N.D.C.L. 81). Dr. Abbey’s role as Acting CEO will be effective immediately, pending receipt of the constitutionally required advice of the Ghana Cocoa Board’s Board and consultation with the Public Services Commission.
This high-profile appointment reflects the government’s trust in Dr. Abbey’s leadership and capacity to oversee the affairs of one of Ghana’s most critical institutions. COCOBOD is responsible for managing the country’s cocoa sector, a vital component of Ghana’s economy and a key contributor to its GDP.
Dr. Abbey, widely recognized as a member of the Ghana Football Association’s Executive Council and President of Heart of Lions Football Club, brings a wealth of experience from his engagements in public service, sports, and media. His appointment is expected to inspire new strategies and reforms that will bolster Ghana’s cocoa industry and enhance its global competitiveness.
In the letter, the President conveyed his best wishes to Dr. Abbey, affirming confidence in his ability to serve the nation in this capacity. The appointment has also been communicated to key stakeholders, including the Vice President, Chief of Staff, Ministers of Finance and Agriculture, the Ghana Cocoa Board Chairperson, and the Public Services Commission.
As Dr. Abbey assumes his new role, all eyes will be on him to drive innovation and efficiency in the cocoa sector, ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity for Ghana’s farmers and the broader economy.
