The Asunafo North Cooperative Cocoa Farmers and Marketing Union has stepped up its campaign to eliminate child labour in cocoa farming within the Asunafo North Municipality of the Ahafo Region.
As part of activities marking this year’s World Day Against Child Labour, the Union organized a sensitization program at Asumura Nfante, engaging chiefs, parents, and students. A football match was also held to raise awareness among young people.
Speaking to Adom News, the Union’s Marketing and Regulation Manager, Sadique Asumah, expressed concern that despite ongoing public education, some farmers continue to involve children in hazardous farm work. He stressed the need to intensify education on the issue to protect children’s rights.
Mr. Asumah reminded farmers that once they receive premium payments from the Union, they are expected to hire adult labourers rather than use school-going children—especially during school hours or for physically demanding tasks.
He emphasized that child labour is a violation of Ghanaian law and warned farmers to desist from the practice or face legal consequences.
In his concluding remarks, Mr. Asumah encouraged parents to allow children to assist on farms only during weekends and school holidays, and only with light tasks appropriate for their age and strength.