COCOBOD settles GH¢2.3bn DDEP bond payment, completes 2026 obligations

The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has completed the settlement of GH¢2.306 billion owed to holders of bonds affected by the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP), fulfilling its mandatory payment obligations for 2026.

The latest payment brings COCOBOD’s total payments to DDEP bondholders this year to GH¢2.683 billion, following an earlier coupon payment of GH¢376.33 million made in March 2026.

COCOBOD said the payments form part of its commitment to meeting its financial obligations and maintaining a structured approach to managing its liabilities.

According to the Board, the GH¢2.306 billion settlement represents the completion of its mandatory DDEP-related payments for 2026.

The earlier GH¢376.33 million coupon payment made in March brings the total amount paid to affected DDEP bondholders during the year to GH¢2.683 billion.

COCOBOD said the settlements demonstrate its commitment to responsible financial management and the systematic fulfilment of its obligations.

The cocoa regulator also disclosed that it paid GH¢162 million in July 2026 to holders of Cocoa Bills who did not participate in the DDEP.

The July payment fully settled COCOBOD’s outstanding obligations to the affected non-DDEP Cocoa Bill holders.

The Board said the settlement brings those obligations to an end, further reducing outstanding financial commitments associated with its borrowing arrangements.

COCOBOD said the payments form part of broader efforts to strengthen the financial sustainability of Ghana’s cocoa sector.

The measures are being implemented under the guidance of the Ministry of Finance as authorities seek to improve financial management and reinforce the long-term viability of the cocoa industry.

The completion of the DDEP-related payments is expected to provide greater clarity around COCOBOD’s 2026 debt-servicing obligations and support efforts to stabilise the finances of the cocoa sector.

COCOBOD reiterated its commitment to responsible financial management and the timely settlement of its obligations as it continues to work with the government on measures to strengthen Ghana’s cocoa industry.