ABETIFI, EASTERN REGION – A leading contender in the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primary, Bryan Acheampong, has highlighted his role in reshaping the country’s cocoa financing model as he seeks to persuade party delegates.
Speaking on the campaign trail, the Abetifi MP said he made history at the Ministry of Agriculture by ending COCOBOD’s decades-long reliance on syndicated loans to finance cocoa purchases.
“Since 1947, COCOBOD has always gone for syndication, usually around $2 billion at about 10 percent interest,” Mr Acheampong told delegates in a video widely shared online.
“When I went in there, I cancelled syndication. For the first time, we didn’t do it.”
He explained that under his direction, Ghana instead adopted a direct-sale approach.
“If you want Ghana’s cocoa, bring your money and we will supply to you. I will not take a loan, buy cocoa, supply you, and go back to pay interest.”
Mr Acheampong described the decision as a “Kwahu business calculation” — a bold but pragmatic move which he said won the backing of then-President Nana Akufo-Addo.
The policy, he argued, saved the country from paying millions in interest and proved his ability to take “big decisions” that benefit Ghana.
The MP, who is pitching himself as the man of ideas in the NPP race, used the example to contrast his record with that of rivals, urging delegates to examine how others have translated promises into action.
His comments come as the NPP intensifies its search for a flagbearer ahead of the 2026 general elections, in what is shaping up to be one of the most competitive leadership contests in the party’s recent history.
Vetting of aspirants officially starts today.
Source: metrotvonline.com
