The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has recognized and rewarded the exceptional achievements of cocoa farmers at the 39th National Farmers' Day Awards in Tarkwa, Western Region.
The ceremony celebrated the dedication and contributions of farmers to the country's cocoa industry.
Madam Adwoa Sintim of Sankore in the Ahafo region emerged as the 2023 National Best Cocoa Farmer, receiving a Toyota Hilux Double Cabin Pick-up, a standard pruner, cocoa products, safety equipment, and a motorized sprayer, among other prizes.
Madam Faustina Asamoah received the 2023 National Most Enterprising Female Cocoa Farmer Award, including a cheque for GH₵100,000 from the Cocoa World Foundation, a mini truck, tricycle, cocoa products, and apparel.
Mr. George Opoku Koduah won the 2023 National Most Promising Cocoa Farmer Award, earning a mini truck, tricycle, cocoa products, and safety gear.
Ms. Rukaya Sumaila was honored as the National Sheanut Picker and received a tricycle, protective gear, cocoa products, and other essentials.
Mr. Peter Mac Manu, Board Chairman of COCOBOD, commended the award winners for their commitment to producing quality cocoa, and contributing to the global confectionery market. He acknowledged cocoa farmers for supporting national food security through climate-smart agricultural practices.
Mr. Joseph Boahen Aidoo, Chief Executive of COCOBOD, praised the farmers for improving their techniques with the support of the Board. He expressed concern about cocoa smuggling and urged security agencies to address the issue.
Madam Adwoa Sintim, on behalf of the awardees, expressed gratitude to COCOBOD and encouraged the youth to embrace cocoa farming, citing government interventions to make the sector more beneficial and viable.