The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has called for immediate and decisive action to revive Ghana’s struggling cocoa sector, warning that continued neglect could undermine the livelihoods of millions of farmers and threaten a critical pillar of the national economy.
Cocoa Sector in Distress
In a statement issued after their recent deliberations, the Bishops expressed deep concern about the declining fortunes of cocoa production in Ghana. They noted that persistent challenges—including illegal mining activities, climate change impacts, smuggling, and inadequate support for farmers—are steadily eroding gains made in the industry over decades.
According to the Bishops, cocoa remains a backbone of Ghana’s economy, contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings and rural employment. However, they warned that the sector is now at a crossroads and requires urgent reforms to restore its viability and sustainability.
Protect Farmlands from Illegal Mining
The Catholic leaders singled out illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, as one of the gravest threats to cocoa farms. They lamented that vast tracts of arable land are being degraded, water bodies polluted, and farming communities displaced due to unregulated mining activities.
They urged government agencies to strictly enforce environmental laws and safeguard cocoa-growing areas from further destruction.
Fair Pricing and Farmer Support
The Bishops also called for improved pricing structures and timely payments to cocoa farmers. They emphasized that farmers must receive fair compensation for their hard work to discourage smuggling and ensure continued investment in cocoa cultivation.
They further advocated for expanded access to fertilizers, improved seedlings, extension services, and modern farming techniques to boost productivity.
Strengthen Regulatory Institutions
The Conference urged policymakers to strengthen institutions responsible for overseeing the cocoa sector to ensure transparency, accountability, and effective regulation. They stressed the importance of collaboration between government, private stakeholders, and farming communities in designing sustainable solutions.
A Call for National Commitment
The Bishops concluded by appealing to all stakeholders—including traditional authorities, civil society, and political leaders—to treat the cocoa crisis as a national emergency. They maintained that rescuing the sector is not only an economic necessity but also a moral obligation to protect the dignity and livelihoods of farmers who sustain the nation.
They expressed hope that swift and coordinated action would restore Ghana’s cocoa industry to its former glory and secure its future for generations to come.
