Ghana has taken over the presidency of the Consultative International Cashew Council (CICC) from Côte D'Ivoire, marking a significant milestone in the country's efforts to promote the sustainable development of the cashew sector globally.
The CICC, an international organization dedicated to coordinating policies and cooperation among member states for the development of the cashew sector, provides a vital framework for consultation and collaboration in this critical industry.
Mr. Yaw Frimpong Addo, Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture in charge of Crops, expressed Ghana's readiness to assume this leadership role, highlighting the country's preparations over the years by establishing regulations and structures to support the cashew sector.
Leading the 11-member organization presents an opportunity for Ghana to leverage and learn from best practices in cashew production, processing, and accessing funding opportunities from other member states. Mr. Addo emphasized the importance of leveraging the experiences of countries like Côte D'Ivoire, which have advanced from production to marketing, to enhance Ghana's cashew sector.
Mr. William Agyapong Quaittoo, CEO of the Tree Development Authority, underscored the opportunities Ghana will enjoy as president of the CICC, including attracting foreign investment for research and sustainable initiatives in the cashew sector. He highlighted Ghana's ambition to increase local processing of cashews to add value to the industry and benefit farmers.
With cocoa production facing challenges due to climate change, there is a strategic shift towards developing the cashew sector as a key foreign exchange earner. Ghana aims to increase cashew production and processing to reduce reliance on raw exports and maximize economic benefits.
The CICC, comprising member states such as Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Guinea, Nigeria, and others, aims to create a consultation framework and synergies for sustainable development in the cashew sector. Africa's cashew industry, with about 60% of global raw cashew nuts produced on the continent, holds significant potential for driving economic growth and development.
Ghana's assumption of the CICC presidency underscores its commitment to enhancing the competitiveness and sustainability of the cashew sector, contributing to economic diversification and resilience in the region.
