President John Mahama has reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring that cocoa farmers in Ghana receive at least 70 per cent of the world market price for cocoa, an initiative he says is aimed at restoring dignity and fairness to the backbone of Ghana’s agricultural economy.
Addressing a gathering of residents and farmers on Tuesday, July 15, during his Thank You tour in the Western North Region, the President lauded the region’s immense contribution to Ghana’s cocoa industry and acknowledged the persistent challenges confronting farmers.
“When it comes to cocoa production, Western North is a leader. Indeed, the people of this region are the backbone of Ghana’s cocoa production. But I’m aware of the hardships our cocoa farmers face—low prices, inadequate extension services, and delays in the distribution of cocoa inputs,” President Mahama stated.
[embedded content]He assured the gathering that his government will not only maintain but enforce the policy of paying farmers 70 per cent of the world market price, describing the pledge as a matter of equity and national responsibility.
“The sweat of our cocoa farmers deserves dignity and a fair reward. We will ensure our commitment to pay our farmers 70% of the world market price of cocoa,” he added.
Beyond pricing, the President also touched on reforms being undertaken within the cocoa sector, especially in areas hit hard by disease and ageing plantations.
He cited Bia and Juaboso as examples of districts where swollen shoot disease and old cocoa trees have significantly cut yields.
“We’ve restructured the cocoa rehabilitation program, especially in Bia and Juaboso areas where swollen shoots and old trees have drastically reduced cocoa yields,” he said.
Under the new direction of the Ghana Cocoa Board, the President explained that farmers can expect a renewed focus on improved seedlings, sustained extension services, and better compensation for farms undergoing rehabilitation.
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