CMC MD to champion innovation and sustainability in cocoa and food sectors

Dr. Wisdom Kofi Dogbey is the Managing Director of the Cocoa Marketing Company (CMC). He recently spoke at a forum in Accra. The event was organized by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) – Food Research Institute.

Dr. Dogbey called for innovation and sustainability in Ghana's cocoa sector. He emphasized the need to rethink food production and processing methods. This change aims to enhance resilience, add value, and accelerate economic growth.

"Cocoa is not just a commodity," he stated. "It is vital to our culture, economy, and millions of farmers' livelihoods." However, he noted that the industry faces challenges like climate change and market volatility.

He stressed that innovation must address these complex issues. CMC is integrating new technologies into its operations. They are also collaborating with stakeholders like COCOBOD to improve cocoa quality.

"Sustainability is at the heart of our mission," Dr. Dogbey said. He wants cocoa production to support farmers while protecting the environment.

He highlighted Ghana's overreliance on exporting raw cocoa while importing finished goods. "This paradox shows we need to develop local processing capacities," he explained. By adding value locally, Ghana can retain wealth and provide healthier food options.

Dr. Dogbey urged stronger collaboration among government agencies, private enterprises, NGOs, and research institutions like CSIR. A united approach will help build a robust and sustainable food system.

"As we promote innovation in healthy food production," he concluded, "we must empower farmers and strengthen our economy."