Cocoa farmers unhappy about 8.42% increase in cocoa price

Some cocoa farmers in the country have expressed disappointment in the government following increment of the price of cocoa from GH¢7,600.00 to GH¢8,240.00 a tonne and GH¢475.00 to GH¢515.00 a bag.

According to them, the producer price for cocoa is not enough and would still worsen their economic welfare.

The raise in cocoa price implies 8.42 percent increment, making it an upward review of GH¢640.00 and GH¢40.00 for a tonne and a bag respectively.

Dr. Gyiele Nurah, a Minister of State at the Ministry of Food and Agriculture announced the increment on behalf of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo- Addo, when he addressed a durbar organized by the Ghana Cocoa Board to mark the 14th National Cocoa Day Celebration at the Jubilee Park in Sunyani.

But, Chairman for Sefwi Boako Cocoa Farmers Association, Kweku Seidu reacting to the increment said, off-farm income constituted about one-third of total gross cocoa income and therefore was an important risk management strategy for cocoa farmers, providing an additional source of livelihood income.

“We are not so happy about the increment. Farmers are really struggling and so we would be grateful if they increase it to GH¢700.00. Government has not been fair to us. Yes, they have increased it but they should consider our plea as well,” he told Accra based Neat FM.

He added that it was important for COCOBOD and its related agencies to ensure equitable distribution of resources and services for all cocoa farmers.