Farmers from the cocoa-purchasing firm, Cocoa Abrabopa, have expressed their concerns regarding the low price of cocoa.
On September 9, 2023, President Akufo-Addo announced a new cocoa price at the commencement of the 2023/2024 cocoa season. The price per bag of cocoa increased from GH¢800.00 to GH¢1,308.00, representing a significant 63.5 percent increment from the previous price.
However, during the 12th Annual General Meeting of the Cocoa Abrabopa Association, held in Kumasi on November 30, 2023, farmers from the cocoa purchasing firm voiced their dissatisfaction with the new price, considering it to be insignificant. They argued that the cost of goods and services has risen in recent years, making it impossible for the new price to sustain their livelihoods.
The farmers emphasized that the prices of farming inputs, such as fertilizers and agrochemicals, have skyrocketed. Despite the price increment, they still struggle to afford these essential resources for their farms.
“Although the government has increased prices of cocoa, a lot of them are not happy at all because the money is not enough.”They said.
The farmers have revealed that illegal miners, known as Galamseyers, have been causing significant damage to their cocoa farms. Consequently, the government must intensify its efforts in combating this menace.
They argue that by substantially increasing cocoa prices, those who currently allow Galamseyers to operate on their lands would be incentivized to prioritize the maintenance of their farms. This, in turn, would lead to a decrease in illegal mining activities across the country.
“Galamsey is ongoing in various cocoa-growing areas. They are destroying our farmers. We’re worried. For this reason, we’re pleading with the government to extend the fight to deep rural areas.”
Source: Oyerepafmonline.com / Joseph Marfo
