Amid public backlash over COCOBOD CEO Randy Abbey’s recent trip to the United States during Ghana’s Farmers’ Day celebration, the organisation’s Public Relations Officer, Jerome K. Sam, has redirected national attention to what he calls the unprecedented achievements recorded under Abbey’s leadership.
The controversy began after images of Mr Abbey at the FIFA World Cup draw in the U.S. surfaced online, prompting critics to accuse him of choosing football over farmers. But according to COCOBOD’s PRO, the criticisms ignore the facts and overlook the progress the cocoa sector has made in recent years.
In a detailed statement, Mr Sam explained that the CEO was lawfully on leave, and that his absence had no bearing on the Farmers’ Day programme.
“Farmers’ Day is not a COCOBOD event. It is strictly organised by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture,” he clarified. “COCOBOD belongs to the Ministry of Finance, so claiming that he abandoned his duties is simply factually wrong.”
He argued that results, not physical presence, should be the measure of leadership.
“Under Mr Abbey’s tenure, we saw Ghana’s projected cocoa output rise from about 550,000 metric tonnes to 603,000 metric tonnes. That increase of over 53,000 metric tonnes is not a small achievement. It reflects operational efficiency, better farmer support, and improved sector confidence.”
Mr Sam highlighted the historic contributions made by COCOBOD during the most recent Farmers’ Day celebration as evidence of the CEO’s commitment to farmers.
“For the first time in Ghana’s history, all award winners received mini tractors, cash support, and additional farm inputs,” he revealed. “If the CEO had no interest in the event, these groundbreaking benefits would not have been rolled out.”
He rejected claims that the CEO’s trip amounted to neglect.
“Look at the Farmers’ Day awards, they bear the imprint of his leadership. Look at the productivity numbers, they reflect strategic direction. These are not signs of abandonment; they are signs of dedication.”
Mr Sam urged the public to seek accurate information before drawing conclusions, arguing that misinformation only undermines national progress.
“This country loses when people speak without understanding institutional mandates. Criticism is good, but it must be based on facts,” he said.
He concluded by reaffirming COCOBOD’s commitment to supporting Ghanaian farmers.
“Our farmers are the backbone of this country, and under Mr Abbey’s leadership, they will continue to receive the tools, support and recognition they deserve.”
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