A leading opposition figure, Awal Mohammed, has accused the government of impoverishing cocoa farmers through what he describes as poor pricing policies and mismanagement of the cocoa sector.
According to him, cocoa farmers — who remain the backbone of Ghana’s agricultural economy — are bearing the brunt of economic hardship while state authorities fail to prioritise their welfare.
“Farmers Are Struggling to Survive”
Awal Mohammed argued that producer prices offered to cocoa farmers are inadequate compared to rising input costs, inflation, and general living expenses.
He maintained that farmers are struggling to break even despite global cocoa price movements that should ordinarily translate into better earnings at the farmgate.
“Cocoa farmers are working tirelessly, yet they continue to live in poverty,” he said, insisting that current policies are eroding the livelihoods of rural communities dependent on cocoa farming.
Calls for Fair Pricing and Sector Reforms
The critic urged the government to review cocoa pricing structures to ensure farmers receive a fair share of international market proceeds.
He also called for greater transparency in the management of the cocoa sector, including improved accountability in the operations of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD).
According to him, empowering farmers through better pricing, access to inputs, and timely payments would significantly improve productivity and rural incomes.
Cocoa Sector Central to Ghana’s Economy
Cocoa remains one of Ghana’s leading export commodities and a major source of foreign exchange. Industry analysts warn that continued dissatisfaction among farmers could affect production levels and long-term sustainability.
Awal Mohammed stressed that protecting cocoa farmers is not only a social obligation but also an economic necessity for national development.
Government Yet to Respond
As of the time of filing this report, government officials had not publicly responded to the allegations.
The remarks add to growing debate over cocoa sector reforms, farmer welfare, and the broader management of Ghana’s agricultural economy.
