The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has addressed recent media reports suggesting that its Chief Executive Officer, Joseph Boahen Aidoo, blamed the Russian government for cocoa smuggling activities.
In a statement, COCOBOD made it clear that at no point did the CEO attribute cocoa smuggling to the Russian government.
Instead, the clarification stated that Aidoo had expressed concerns about local miscreants in Ghana involved in smuggling cocoa to foreign individuals, including some Russians based in neighboring countries. COCOBOD emphasized that misreporting on this matter could lead to unnecessary diplomatic tensions.
The Board urged media outlets to ensure accuracy when reporting on sensitive issues that could have international implications. Additionally, COCOBOD reassured the public of its continued efforts, in collaboration with both local and international partners, to combat cocoa smuggling and safeguard the industry.
