Tree Crops Development Authority Expands Operations with New Bono Regional Office in Sunyani

The Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) has officially inaugurated its Bono Regional Office in Sunyani, marking a significant milestone in the agency's decentralization strategy. This new hub is designed to bring essential regulatory and support services closer to stakeholders within the tree crops value chain, particularly in a region that serves as a cornerstone for Ghana’s cashew production. The establishment of the office reflects a broader commitment by the TCDA to enhance the efficiency of the agricultural sector and ensure that farmers have direct access to the Authority’s expertise and oversight.

During the commissioning ceremony, TCDA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Andy Osei Okrah, alongside TCDA Board Chairman Prof. William Oduro and local officials, highlighted the operational benefits of the Sunyani office. The facility will streamline the registration and licensing process for industry actors, ranging from smallholder farmers to large-scale processors and traders. By facilitating better data collection and monitoring, the TCDA aims to improve compliance with national standards and enhance the traceability of tree crops, which is increasingly vital for international market competitiveness.

Bono Regional Minister Joseph A. Akwaboa emphasized the strategic importance of the new office for the region’s economic development. He noted that the TCDA’s presence would bolster agricultural productivity and improve market access for local producers. Minister Akwaboa urged stakeholders to collaborate closely with the Authority and encouraged farmers to adopt climate-smart agricultural practices to ensure the long-term sustainability of the sector. The regional administration views this partnership as a catalyst for job creation and poverty reduction within the cashew-growing belt.

Dr. Okrah expressed profound gratitude to President John Mahama for his continued support of the TCDA’s regional initiatives and its mission to diversify Ghana’s agricultural export base. As the Authority expands its footprint, it remains focused on public education and stakeholder engagement to foster a more robust tree crops industry. This decentralization effort is expected to serve as a model for other regions, ensuring that the benefits of agricultural policy are felt at the grassroots level and that Ghana remains a leading producer in the global tree crops market.