President John Dramani Mahama has engaged with the Ghana Cocoa, Coffee, and Sheanut Farmers Association (COCOSHE), raising concerns over the deep financial crisis facing Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD).

President Mahama bemoaned COCOBOD being saddled with a debt of over GHS32 billion, noting the board had seen better days during his initial tenure, ending in January 2017, when it enjoyed sound policies.

He observed the financial struggles had led to stalled projects and were severely affecting farmers' livelihoods.

Speaking during a courtesy call by COCOSHE, the president emphasised the urgent need for a reset this year to ensure the government could pay farmers a fair price – maintaining at least 70% of the producer price.

He called for incentives and improved farming methods to make the sector more attractive, also.

Furthermore, President Mahama addressed the ongoing crisis at the Produce Buying Company (PBC), urging a full audit and prosecution where necessary.

Similarly, he called for urgent redemptive action for the struggling sheanut factory in Buipe, stressing the need for accountability and revitalisation.