Cocoa Farmers in Crisis: The President of Cocoa Farmers Accuses COCOBOD of Neglect

Story by Linda Agyemang

Stephenson Anane Boateng, President of the Ghana National Association of Cocoa Farmers, has accused the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) of neglecting cocoa farmers and failing to address their concerns.

According to Mr. Anane, cocoa farmers across the country are raising serious complaints about what they described as government inaction and poor engagement from COCOBOD. He said that although the government appears to be listening to farmers grievances, little meaningful change has been seen.

Speaking on the growing crisis in cocoa sector, Mr. Anane expressed deep disappointment over recent policy measures, including the reduction of time-bound cocoa-related arrangements, which he argued unfairly target farmers. He explained that when a farmers sells two bags of cocoa, they could effectively lose the value of one bag due to accumulated interest and other deductions.

Mr. Anane also questioned the legitimacy of certain cocoa farmers’ associations. He alleged that COCOBOD claims an association based in Suyani had called for reduction in cocoa prices, but insisted that no such association exists.

He further stated that the issue dated back to the administration of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo, Anane mentioned that, Mr. Randy Abbey is fully aware of the situation and challenged him to consider whether Similar treatment would be tolerated in health sector. He questions whether workers would be allowed to suffer in silence under comparable circumstances.

The cocoa farmers’ leaders called on COCOBOD to properly verified and certified association before engaging with them. He accused the Board of sidelining genuine farmers while allegedly dealing with politically affiliated groups. He revealed that letters sent to both the Ministry of Finance and COCOBOD have gone unanswered, noting that only the President has provided a response so far.

Mr. Anane also claimed that no additional financial support has been made available to cocoa farmers since government directives were issued. He allegedly that COCOB appears to be operating at a loss and falling to deliver meaningful impact, despite its long-standing existence.

Finally, he called for Constitutional amendment to strengthen the welfare protection of cocoa farmers, stressed that urgent reform are needed to safeguard their livelihoods.