Abrabopa Cocoa Ltd. (ACL) has officially opened its office in Kumasi, marking an important step in the company’s development as a licensed cocoa buying company. The occasion also introduced leadership appointments that support closer coordination between ACL and Cocoa Abrabopa Association (CAA).
Colleagues gathered to celebrate the opening and reaffirm their shared commitment to cocoa farmers, professional service and the continued development of Abrabopa.
During the ceremony, Patrick van Brakel announced his appointment as Managing Director of ACL, following his service as Chief Finance and Operations Manager at CAA. In his new role, he will guide the company’s commercial and operational activities while continuing to work closely with the Association.
Pomasi Ismaila was announced as CAA’s Executive Secretary, bringing extensive experience in farmer representation, Council leadership and management to the role. His appointment builds on a long association with Abrabopa, which he joined in 2007 before becoming a Council member in 2014 and Council Chairman in 2015.
The appointments establish clear management responsibilities while strengthening collaboration across the two organisations.
The office opening follows ACL’s receipt of its cocoa buying licence from COCOBOD. The office provides a base for coordinating purchasing, administration, warehouse activity and logistics as the company prepares to begin operations. Patrick also outlined African Tiger’s role, as ACL’s main shareholder, in arranging funding to support the company’s launch.
Teamwork was a central theme of the gathering. Patrick encouraged colleagues to recognise the shared purpose connecting their work across CAA and ACL.
“Together we have to flourish. We have to grow,” he said.
He emphasised that this shared purpose extends from improving cocoa farmers’ livelihoods to supporting a better future for employees and their families.
In his remarks, Pomasi described his appointment as an “old face, new responsibility.” He thanked Patrick for his service to CAA, recognised the contributions of colleagues and encouraged continued cooperation across the organisation.
The opening marks a new chapter for Abrabopa, bringing together an operational base, experienced leadership and a common commitment to responsible cocoa purchasing and farmer service.
Guided by the meaning of its name—“Cocoa for a better life”—Abrabopa will continue to connect its commercial activities with the wellbeing of farmers and their communities.
Moments from the opening
