Dr. Randy Abbey, a well-known journalist and football administrator, has been appointed as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD). His appointment was officially announced in a letter from Callistus Mahama, the Secretary to the President, on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.
The letter detailed that Dr. Abbey’s appointment was made by the President of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, in accordance with the stipulations set forth in Article 195(1) of the Constitution and Section 12(2) of the Ghana Cocoa Board Act, 1984 (P.N.D.C.L 81). According to the letter, Dr. Abbey will serve in this interim role as the Acting CEO of COCOBOD until the necessary constitutional processes are completed, which include receiving the required advice from the Board of Ghana Cocoa Board in consultation with the Public Services Commission.
The appointment of Dr. Abbey as Acting CEO follows the resignation of the previous CEO, Joseph Boahen Aidoo, who stepped down earlier this month. His resignation created a vacancy in the leadership of the cocoa regulatory body, which is responsible for overseeing the cocoa industry in Ghana, one of the world’s largest producers of cocoa beans.
Dr. Randy Abbey is a seasoned professional with significant experience in both the media and football administration. His background, which combines journalism and leadership roles within the football industry, has made him a respected figure in Ghanaian society.
His appointment to this important position at COCOBOD signals the government’s intent to maintain continuity in the leadership of the organization while ensuring that the cocoa sector, a crucial pillar of the Ghanaian economy, continues to receive the attention and leadership it requires.
Ghana Cocoa Board plays a vital role in the country’s cocoa industry, which is integral to Ghana’s economy, providing employment to millions and contributing significantly to the nation’s revenue. As the Acting CEO, Dr. Abbey will be tasked with ensuring that the activities of COCOBOD continue smoothly, including overseeing cocoa production, processing, marketing, and the implementation of policies aimed at sustaining the industry’s growth and development.
Dr. Abbey’s appointment comes at a time when the cocoa industry is facing various challenges, including fluctuations in global cocoa prices and the need for sustainable farming practices. As Acting CEO, he will likely be expected to navigate these challenges while maintaining the board’s core mission of supporting cocoa farmers and promoting the growth of the industry both locally and internationally.
While Dr. Abbey assumes the role temporarily, the ongoing consultation between COCOBOD’s Board and the Public Services Commission will eventually determine a permanent successor for Joseph Boahen Aidoo. This process will ensure that the next full-time CEO is appointed following the constitutional and legal requirements.
The appointment of Dr. Randy Abbey as Acting CEO of COCOBOD marks an important development in the governance of Ghana’s cocoa sector. His leadership and experience will be crucial in steering the board through this transitional period, and he will play a key role in maintaining the stability and success of the cocoa industry.
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