Director of Legal Affairs at the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Evans Amankwah, has acknowledged the potential consequences of the government’s mishandling of the cocoa industry, given the sector’s huge impact on Ghana’s economy.
This comes after the government announced a 28.6% reduction in the producer price of cocoa, slashing the rate from GH¢3,625 to GH¢2,587 per 64kg bag for the remainder of the 2025/2026 crop season.
Speaking on Nhyira FM’s “Kro Yi Mu Nsem” Morning show, Mr. Amankwah stressed that cocoa is a lifeline for many Ghanaian families, driving their daily lives and economic stability.
He conceded that farmers are right to be upset about the price cut, noting it will put a strain on their finances.
“As a cocoa farmer myself, I understand their grievances because look at the stress that they went through, and where we have gotten to—by cutting the producer price, it’s very sad,” he noted.
He, however, urged farmers to remain patient, acknowledging their frustrations but attributing the price reduction to unavoidable global market changes and a debt mess left by the previous government.
“I am urging them to accept the new price even though it is a tough spot, but better than selling cocoa without getting paid,” he said.
He added, “The price drop is not the current government’s fault. The previous gov’t left COCOBOD drowning in debt, prompting the President to order the AG to probe it.”
Mr. Amankwah emphasized that addressing the cocoa sector’s challenges should be a top priority, and a sustainable solution is needed.
“I’m pleading with the government, which I am also part of, to boost cocoa prices for Ghanaian farmers when global prices shoot up.”
He warned that if the government fails to address the issue, it could have electoral consequences.
Amankwah also expressed concern over COCOBOD’s persistent debt, questioning why a regulated sector like cocoa keeps ending up in debt, saying it just does not make sense.
“Our officials at COCOBOD should ensure the right thing is done to get rid of this debt crisis. They’re not the ones feeling the pinch from the price cut, it’s the farmers and that’s just not right,” he stated.
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