Cocoa farmers in Sehwi Aboagyekrom, located in Ghana’s Western North Region, have expressed profound gratitude to the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) for its decision to announce new cocoa producer prices in August 2025. This move is widely anticipated to deliver a significant boost to farmers’ earnings and strengthen Ghana’s competitive edge in the global cocoa market.
The Chief Executive Officer of COCOBOD, Dr. Ransford Abbey, made the announcement during a three-day working tour of the Western North and Western South Regions, where he engaged directly with farmers and stakeholders in the cocoa sector.
A Strategic Move to Transform the Cocoa Industry
Speaking to a gathering of enthusiastic farmers in Aboagyekrom within the Sehwi Wiawso Municipality, Dr. Abbey underscored the government’s commitment to empowering cocoa farmers. He revealed that the upcoming price increment is designed not only to improve farmers’ livelihoods but also to address critical challenges such as cross-border smuggling of cocoa beans and the encroachment of illegal mining activities in cocoa-growing areas.
“This adjustment is part of a comprehensive strategy to ensure fair compensation for our hardworking farmers, curb the illegal flow of cocoa across borders, and preserve the integrity of our cocoa-growing regions,” Dr. Abbey remarked.
According to industry experts, the new pricing, which is expected to surpass rates in neighbouring Ivory Coast, is a calculated effort to maintain Ghana’s reputation as a leader in cocoa production and sustainability.
Farmers’ Joy and Renewed Commitment
The announcement was met with applause and visible excitement among farmers, who had earlier been concerned about rumours suggesting that no price increment would be forthcoming this year. The news has rekindled hope and renewed their confidence in COCOBOD’s dedication to the welfare of cocoa producers.
In interviews with local media, several farmers shared their optimism about the impact of the expected price increase.
“This is the kind of leadership we have been waiting for. With better prices, we can invest in our farms, improve productivity, and attract more young people to join the cocoa industry,” said Kwame Mensah, a farmer from Aboagyekrom.
Others highlighted the broader implications, noting that higher producer prices would discourage smuggling and stabilize the sector.
Farmers’ Appeal for Meaningful Action
Despite their enthusiasm, the farmers appealed to COCOBOD and the government to ensure that the August announcement reflects current market realities and inflationary pressures. They emphasized the importance of a substantial price increment to make cocoa farming more profitable and sustainable.
“We are grateful for this initiative, but the new price must truly make a difference. Farmers deserve to enjoy the fruits of their labour, especially considering the rising costs of farm inputs,” remarked Akosua Badu, another farmer.
The farmers pledged their unwavering support for COCOBOD and called on all stakeholders to collaborate in addressing the challenges facing the cocoa industry.
A New Dawn for Cocoa Farming
The announcement of a new pricing regime marks a potential turning point for Ghana’s cocoa industry. It signals a renewed commitment to ensuring the well-being of farmers while safeguarding the nation’s agricultural heritage. With the anticipated price increment, cocoa farming in Ghana could soon experience a renaissance, attracting fresh talent and setting a global standard for equitable and sustainable practices.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
