The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has rejected reports alleging it contributed GH¢12 million to sponsor Ghana’s national football team, Black Stars.

In an official notice, the Board dismissed suggestions that it redirected funds meant for cocoa farmers to support the team, describing the claims as “false, misleading, and without any factual basis.”

COCOBOD made it clear that it has not sponsored the national team and has not reallocated any farmer-designated funds for such a purpose.

“At no point has COCOBOD diverted funds meant for farmer payments to support the Black Stars,” the notice emphasised.

The Board reiterated that its primary responsibility remains the protection and advancement of cocoa farmers’ welfare. It highlighted its continued focus on timely payments for cocoa purchases, the supply of inputs and extension services, and long-term investment in the cocoa industry.

Calling on the public to ignore the circulating allegations, COCOBOD advised stakeholders to rely exclusively on its official communication platforms for credible and verified updates.

The clarification comes at a time of intensified public scrutiny over the use of public funds, with COCOBOD seeking to reassure farmers and other stakeholders that its financial commitments remain aligned strictly with its statutory mandate.