Cocoa farmers throughout Ghana are voicing frustration over the recent announcement of updated farmgate prices for cocoa beans. The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has revealed a 58.26 percent increase, establishing the price at GH¢33,120 cedis per ton for the upcoming 2023/2024 crop season. COCOBOD defends this move as an effort to share the gains from rising global cocoa prices and deter cocoa bean smuggling.
Despite these intentions, the Ghana National Cocoa Farmers Association strongly opposes the price hike, arguing that it falls short of their expectations.
Stephenson Anane Boateng, the President of the association, argues that cocoa farmers are facing unfair treatment.
He states, “Cocoa prices have surged globally to $10,000 per metric ton. When converted to our currency, it exceeds GH¢9,000. We strongly disagree with COCOBOD’s assessment. We cover labor costs, purchase farm inputs, and also compensate ourselves.
“In essence, we receive only GH¢600, whereas COCOBOD retains GH¢7,000. What significant contribution has COCOBOD made to deserve such a large share? This is insulting!”
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Story by Osei Akoto(Teacher Kojo) #Ahotoronline.com
