The Concerned Farmers Association has issued a stern warning to cocoa farmers across the country, declaring that any farmer found selling cocoa farms to illegal mining operators, popularly known as galamsey operators, will face prosecution and possible imprisonment.
The Association said the growing trend of cocoa farm owners leasing or selling their lands to illegal miners is accelerating environmental destruction and threatening the sustainability of Ghana’s cocoa industry.
Farmers Complicit in Environmental Destruction
Speaking at a press briefing, leaders of the Association expressed deep concern over the increasing conversion of cocoa farms into illegal mining sites. According to them, some farmers are prioritising short-term financial gains over the long-term survival of cocoa production and the health of local communities.
They noted that such actions not only destroy fertile farmlands but also contaminate water bodies with hazardous chemicals, making farming nearly impossible in affected areas.
“Any farmer who willingly sells or hands over cocoa land to galamsey operators is complicit in the destruction of our environment and cocoa sector. They must be ready to face the full rigours of the law,” the Association cautioned.
Cocoa Sector Under Threat
The Association warned that illegal mining activities are steadily eroding Ghana’s reputation as a leading cocoa producer. Large tracts of productive cocoa lands have reportedly been degraded, reducing yields and affecting the livelihoods of thousands of farmers.
They stressed that once land is destroyed by illegal mining, restoring it to viable cocoa production can take years, if not decades.
Call for Strict Enforcement
The Concerned Farmers Association is urging government agencies, including the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and COCOBOD, to intensify monitoring and enforcement efforts in cocoa-growing communities.
They also called for stricter penalties to deter farmers and landowners from engaging in transactions with illegal miners.
Appeal to Farmers
The group appealed to cocoa farmers to safeguard their lands and protect the future of the industry for generations to come. They emphasised that cocoa remains a sustainable and reliable source of income compared to the destructive and short-lived gains from illegal mining.
“We must think about the future of our children and the survival of Ghana’s cocoa heritage. Selling our farms for galamsey is not the solution,” the Association concluded.
