Tensions flared in Accra on Thursday as scores of cocoa farmers staged a protest at the headquarters of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), accusing the government of betraying them over what they describe as unfair and uncompetitive producer prices.
The aggrieved farmers, drawn from major cocoa-growing regions across the country, carried placards and chanted slogans demanding an immediate review of the farmgate price of cocoa. Many claimed that the current pricing structure does not reflect rising global cocoa prices and fails to cushion farmers against increasing production costs.
“We Feel Abandoned”
Speaking to the media during the picketing exercise, some farmer representatives said they felt neglected despite being the backbone of Ghana’s economy.
“We work tirelessly to sustain the cocoa industry, yet we are not seeing the benefits of the rising international prices. This is unfair and unacceptable,” one farmer leader stated.
According to the protesters, the cost of fertilizers, pesticides, transportation, and labour has surged significantly, leaving many farmers struggling to break even. They argue that without a substantial upward adjustment in producer prices, cocoa farming could become unattractive, particularly to younger generations.
Calls for Transparency and Accountability
The farmers also demanded greater transparency in how cocoa revenues are managed. They questioned why global price gains have not translated into improved incomes at the farm level.
Some protesters warned that continued dissatisfaction could negatively affect production levels, threatening Ghana’s position as one of the world’s leading cocoa producers.
They called on COCOBOD and the government to engage farmer groups in meaningful dialogue and announce a revised pricing framework that reflects market realities.
COCOBOD Yet to Respond
As of the time of filing this report, COCOBOD had not officially responded to the allegations. However, sources within the sector say discussions on pricing are ongoing and that authorities are mindful of farmers’ concerns.
The protest underscores growing unease within Ghana’s cocoa sector, which remains a critical pillar of the national economy, contributing significantly to export earnings and rural livelihoods.
Observers say how the government handles the concerns of cocoa farmers in the coming weeks could have far-reaching implications for production, revenue generation, and social stability in cocoa-growing communities.
