A new 15-member Board of the Cashew Council Ghana (CCG) has been inaugurated in Sunyani. This board has a renewed mandate to strengthen coordination, deepen industry advocacy, and drive the competitiveness of Ghana’s cashew sector.
The inauguration occurred on Thursday, June 18, 2026. This is a significant step in efforts to reposition the private sector-led cashew industry. The aim is to achieve sustainable growth, stronger policy engagement, and increased collaboration among producers, processors, traders, and exporters. Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA), Rich Kofi Kofituo, underscored the Council’s vital role in championing stakeholder interests and supporting long-term sector development.
The cashew industry is a crucial part of Ghana's agricultural sector, contributing significantly to rural livelihoods and export earnings. In 2023, Ghana’s cashew exports were valued at over 500 million US dollars, making it one of the country’s top non-traditional exports. This new board aims to build on previous efforts to formalise and expand the industry, ensuring better returns for farmers and increased processing capacity within Ghana. The cashew sector employs thousands across the value chain, from cultivation to processing.
Ed-Malvin Nii Ayi Bontey Smith, who has over two decades of experience in the cashew industry, was elected Chairman. Mr. Smith previously served as the Processors’ Representative on the TCDA Board. He was also President of the Association of Cashew Processors Ghana (ACPG). “We will work diligently to strengthen the Cashew Council Ghana to contribute meaningfully to the growth and competitiveness of Ghana’s cashew sector,” Mr. Smith stated.
The new board’s immediate focus will be to foster stronger collaboration across the entire cashew value chain. This includes engaging with the Tree Crops Development Authority and the African Cashew Alliance. Such partnerships are crucial for addressing current challenges and unlocking new opportunities. Stakeholders will closely watch the board's efforts to implement policies that support sustainable growth and improve market access for Ghanaian cashew products.
The African Cashew Alliance (ACA) has expressed confidence in the new leadership. The ACA expects the Board to bring new energy to industry engagement. It also anticipates deeper collaboration among value chain actors. The ACA has reaffirmed its commitment to work with the Council, the TCDA, and other stakeholders. This collaboration will support policy coordination, improve competitiveness, and promote sustainable growth in the sector. The 2026 ACA Annual Cashew Conference and Expo will take place in Accra from September 15 to 18, 2026. The conference theme is “Sustainable Cashew Supply through Policy, Investment and Partnership.” It will gather global cashew players to discuss the future of the industry.