Accra, Ghana – February 25, 2026 – A Member of Parliament has publicly questioned the reported decision by the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) to allocate a substantial sum of GH¢12 million to the senior national football team, the Black Stars. The lawmaker argues that the move appears contradictory to the board's own narrative of severe indebtedness and the consequent financial strain on cocoa farmers.
Vincent Ekow Assafuah, the Member of Parliament for the Old Tafo constituency, took to social media on Wednesday to voice his concerns. In a post on Facebook, Mr. Assafuah sought clarity on whether the governing Board of COCOBOD had formally approved the reported payment, which is intended as World Cup support for the team.
The legislator's primary contention lies in what he perceives as a misalignment of priorities. He pointed out that COCOBOD has consistently communicated its heavy debt burden to the public. According to the MP, it is on this basis that the board has been compelled to implement "stringent and painful decisions" that directly and negatively impact the livelihoods of cocoa farmers—the very foundation of the country's cocoa industry.
Mr. Assafuah highlighted a stark inconsistency between the board's declared financial state and this proposed expenditure. He stressed that while cocoa farmers are enduring the consequences of COCOBOD's financial challenges, including policies that affect their income, the board is reportedly preparing to release millions for football.
Adding to his critique, the MP questioned the timing of such a financial commitment. He noted that it coincides with a period when salary cuts are being implemented within the cocoa sector itself. This juxtaposition, he suggested, raises serious questions about the board's current financial priorities and its commitment to the welfare of those who sustain the industry.
