This support will include research innovations, sustainable farming practices, and capacity building to help revitalize Liberia’s struggling cocoa industry. / Left: Liberia’s Ambassador to Ghana, Musu Jatu Ruhle and President Mahama.
Accra, Ghana – Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has disclosed that arrangements are underway to extend technical support to Liberia’s cocoa sector through the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) and the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana (CRIG).
Speaking at a ceremony to receive the credentials of Liberia’s Ambassador to Ghana, Musu Jatu Ruhle, President Mahama revealed that a team of experts will soon travel to Liberia to initiate discussions on the technical assistance. This support will include research innovations, sustainable farming practices, and capacity building to help revitalize Liberia’s struggling cocoa industry.
“As part of our commitment to regional growth and solidarity, COCOBOD and CRIG will step forward to provide technical support that will help transform Liberia’s cocoa sector,” President Mahama said.
Ghana’s Plan to Strengthen Liberia’s Cocoa Industry
Under this collaboration, COCOBOD and CRIG will deploy agronomists, researchers, and extension officers to work closely with Liberia’s Ministry of Agriculture and local farmers. Their mission will include farmer Training & Capacity Building which will involve teaching best practices in cocoa cultivation, including proper pruning techniques, effective pest management, and sustainable farming methods; seedling Distribution & Nursery Development: Providing high-yield, disease-resistant cocoa seedlings to replace aging or diseased trees, ensuring more resilient farms.
Other areas include post-harvest processing techniques: helping farmers improve fermentation and drying methods to enhance cocoa bean quality, ensuring Liberian cocoa meets international standards.
Liberia Welcomes Ghana’s Support
On behalf of the Government and people of Liberia, Ambassador Musu Jatu Ruhle expressed deep gratitude for Ghana’s unwavering support. She hailed the initiative as a testament to African solidarity and regional cooperation.
“This act of kindness strengthens the bond between Liberia and Ghana. It reflects our shared vision for peace, progress, and prosperity across the region. We are profoundly grateful for Ghana’s commitment, which continues to inspire hope and deepen the friendship between our peoples,” she stated.
Tackling Challenges in Liberia’s Cocoa Sector
Liberia’s cocoa sector holds immense potential but has long faced challenges such as low yields, aging trees, and limited access to modern farming techniques. To address these issues, CRIG will collaborate with Liberia’s agricultural authorities and farmer cooperatives, sharing decades of scientific research and field-tested solutions to enhance productivity.
Despite its rich natural resources and fertile lands, Liberia’s cocoa industry has struggled due to poor post-harvest practices and inadequate technical support. By leveraging Ghana’s expertise, the country hopes to increase yields, reduce losses, and improve international market competitiveness.
Strengthening Regional Agricultural Cooperation
President Mahama emphasized that this partnership sets a powerful example of intra-African cooperation to accelerate agricultural development.
“By sharing resources and expertise, Ghana and Liberia will demonstrate the strength of regional unity and the potential for mutual prosperity,” he stated.
The Ghanaian leader further noted that his personal friendship with Liberian President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, along with the longstanding historical ties between the two nations, played a key role in fostering this initiative.
As COCOBOD and CRIG continue to support Liberia’s cocoa sector, the initiative is expected to not only uplift farmers but also contribute to the broader vision of a thriving, interconnected African agricultural landscape.
