Cocoa farmers in the Ahafo Ano South West District in the Ashanti Region have expressed deep concern over what they describe as the growing politicization of cocoa pricing in Ghana, warning that such a trend has the potential to undermine national unity and destabilize the country’s agricultural sector.
Addressing the media at a press briefing in the district capital, representatives of the concerned farmers noted that cocoa farming remains a critical pillar of Ghana’s economy and a primary source of livelihood for thousands of households.
They stressed that issues surrounding cocoa pricing must be handled with fairness, transparency, and a sense of national responsibility rather than partisan interests.
According to the farmers, cocoa pricing has increasingly become a subject of political debate, with competing narratives from various stakeholders creating confusion and tension within farming communities.
They cautioned that when cocoa prices are politicized, it not only affects farmers’ morale but also threatens the cohesion that has long characterized cocoa-growing communities across the country.
“We are farmers first and foremost, not politicians,” a spokesperson for the group stated. “Cocoa is our livelihood. When discussions about pricing are turned into political contests, it divides us and distracts from the real issues affecting production and farmer welfare.”
The group emphasized that cocoa is a national asset whose management must transcend party lines. They urged political leaders and policymakers to approach matters concerning cocoa pricing with unity and sincerity, putting the interests of farmers and the nation above partisan considerations.
Despite their concerns, the farmers commended the government’s recent decision to offer cocoa farmers 90 percent of the world market price for their produce. They described the move as a significant and positive step that demonstrates recognition of farmers’ hard work and contribution to the national economy.
They noted that for years, farmers have advocated for a larger share of the international market price to cushion them against rising production costs, including the high prices of fertilizers, agrochemicals, labour, and transportation. The decision to peg producer prices at 90 percent of the world market price, they said, provides some relief and helps restore confidence in the sector.
“This policy is encouraging,” the spokesperson added. “It shows that the concerns of farmers are being heard. We believe that sustaining this initiative will greatly improve our living conditions and motivate more young people to venture into cocoa farming.”
The farmers, however, appealed for consistency and long-term commitment in implementing the policy. They warned that abrupt changes or politically motivated adjustments could disrupt planning and investment decisions at the farm level. Cocoa farming, they explained, requires careful long-term planning, and predictable pricing structures are essential to ensure sustainability.
In addition to pricing concerns, the farmers called for improved access to farm inputs, extension services, and infrastructure to enhance productivity. They emphasized that while fair pricing is crucial, it must be complemented by practical support systems that enable farmers to increase yields and maintain quality standards.
The group further urged relevant authorities to intensify stakeholder engagement and dialogue with cocoa farmers to address grievances before they escalate. They believe that transparent communication and inclusive decision-making will help reduce mistrust and prevent the politicization of key sectoral policies.
Cocoa remains one of Ghana’s leading export commodities, contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings and rural employment. In districts such as Ahafo Ano South West, the crop forms the backbone of the local economy, supporting schools, health facilities, and small businesses.
The concerned farmers concluded their address with a call for unity among all stakeholders—government officials, opposition parties, regulators, and farmers themselves—to safeguard the future of Ghana’s cocoa industry.
“As farmers, we are committed to playing our part in national development,” they said. “All we ask is that cocoa pricing remains a matter of fairness and national interest, not political advantage. Let us protect the industry for generations to come.”
