Ghana’s cocoa industry has received a major financial boost as Access Bank Ghana PLC and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) signed a $134 million risk-sharing agreement to improve liquidity across the cocoa value chain, with strong focus on Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs).
The Bank of Ghana has endorsed the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention for one of the country’s most critical export sectors.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Accra, Second Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Matilda Asante-Asiedu, said the arrangement would protect the foundation of Ghana’s cocoa purchasing system and strengthen market stability.
She explained that the scheme will provide essential working capital to LBCs, which play a central role in connecting smallholder farmers to both local processors and international buyers.
According to her, supporting these companies goes beyond commercial benefit and directly affects national economic security.
She noted that stable LBC operations help safeguard rural livelihoods, boost export earnings, and support exchange rate resilience.
She also stressed that the partnership aligns with Ghana’s broader development agenda, including financial inclusion, private sector expansion, and economic diversification.
In addition, she said the initiative reflects growing confidence in Ghana’s macroeconomic recovery.
Through tighter monetary policy and improved fiscal discipline, the country has strengthened investor confidence, supported GDP growth, and reduced inflation to single-digit levels.
Representatives of the IFC and Access Bank Ghana described the agreement as a strategic step toward unlocking growth in agriculture and improving access to finance for key players within the cocoa ecosystem.
They stated that the risk-sharing structure will allow banks to increase lending to cocoa buyers while managing exposure to market volatility.
IFC officials further reaffirmed the institution’s long-term commitment to Ghana’s economic transformation through development finance, private-sector partnerships, and sustainable investment in productive sectors.
The facility adds to IFC’s expanding portfolio in agribusiness and trade finance across West Africa.
Cocoa remains one of Ghana’s most important commodities, supporting millions of farmers and contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings.
By improving credit access for Licensed Buying Companies, the partnership strengthens the entire supply chain from farm gates to global markets.
For industry observers, the $134 million deal signals renewed confidence in Ghana’s cocoa sector and highlights the growing role of structured finance in supporting Africa’s agricultural economies.
