PAC Issues Fresh Directives to Tree Crops Authority Over GH¢25 Million and Vehicle Documents

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has urged the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) to make productive use of approximately GH¢25 million held in its account to support its operations, strengthen its activities and promote growth within Ghana’s tree crops sector.

The call was made during the fifth day of public hearings on the 2025 audit reports, where officials of various public institutions appeared before the Committee to answer questions about their operations, financial management and compliance with public sector regulations.

The Authority’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Andy Osei Okrah, explained that the institution is responsible for regulating six major tree crops: cashew, coconut, oil palm, rubber, mango and shea. These crops contribute to agricultural production, employment and income generation across the country.

Dr. Okrah also told the Committee that the Authority had been providing training to farmers to improve their farming practices and increase crop yields. The initiative forms part of its efforts to strengthen productivity and support farmers operating within the tree crops industry.

Following the presentation, the Committee commended Dr. Okrah and his management team for their work in developing the sector. However, members stressed the need for management to sustain its efforts and ensure that the Authority’s available financial resources are used effectively.

The Committee also instructed the Authority to obtain the necessary vehicle ownership documents for vehicles purchased for the institution. The directive highlights the importance of maintaining proper documentation for public assets and ensuring accountability in the management of government resources.

Meanwhile, the Committee turned its attention to the Irrigation Company of Upper Region Limited (ICOUR), directing its former Managing Director, Dr. Benedict Bonaventure Aligeba, to vacate the official bungalow following the expiration of the one-year retirement period.

The directive reinforces the need for public officials to comply with the rules governing the use of official accommodation after leaving their positions. Such arrangements are expected to follow established administrative procedures to ensure fairness and proper management of state property.

The Cocoa Processing Company Limited also came under scrutiny after the 2025 Auditor-General’s Report identified procurement breaches involving the company. The Committee advised the institution to strengthen its procurement procedures and ensure compliance with the applicable laws governing public expenditure.

Specifically, the company was urged to comply with the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (Act 663), as amended. The legislation provides the framework for acquiring goods, works and services using public funds and seeks to promote transparency, accountability and value for money in public procurement.

The Committee further advised the Cocoa Processing Company to enrol on the Ghana Electronic Procurement System (GHANEPS), which supports electronic procurement processes. The move is intended to improve transparency, strengthen oversight and help public institutions adhere to established procurement requirements.

The issues raised during the hearings underline the importance of responsible financial management, proper asset documentation and compliance with procurement laws across public institutions. The Committee’s recommendations are expected to encourage the affected organisations to address the concerns identified and improve accountability in their operations.

For the Tree Crops Development Authority, the immediate challenge is to demonstrate that its GH¢25 million balance can be put to productive use while supporting farmers, improving operational capacity and advancing the development of Ghana’s tree crops industry.

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