President John Dramani Mahama has sought to reassure cocoa farmers, affirming that ongoing reforms will strengthen the sector and secure fair, sustainable returns for producers.
His remarks follow government’s decision to revise the cocoa producer price downward to GH¢41,392 per tonne — equivalent to GH¢2,587 per bag — for the remainder of the 2025/2026 crop season.
Addressing Parliament during the 2026 State of the Nation Address on Friday, February 27, President Mahama acknowledged that the adjustment was difficult but insisted it was necessary to protect both the cocoa industry and the broader economy.
He recognised the dissatisfaction and protests that have emerged but stressed that cocoa farmers remain central to Ghana’s agricultural backbone. He argued that inaction could have reversed recent economic gains and worsened fiscal pressures.
The President affirmed that the wider reform programme will revitalise the cocoa value chain, improve efficiency, and ensure farmers receive fair compensation over the long term.
“While fully understanding the concerns and protests of our farmers, I can assure them that the government’s reforms will deliver a complete transformation of the cocoa sector. They will guarantee a fair and transparent price, enabling farmers to cover production costs and earn reasonable margins.
“The difference between economic hardship and avoiding it lies in sound economic judgement. I am determined to take decisions that protect our collective wellbeing and prevent widespread suffering. These are difficult decisions, but Mr. Speaker, I had to take them,” he stated.
President Mahama emphasised that the temporary sacrifice is intended to create a resilient, transparent pricing framework capable of sustaining farmers’ livelihoods while safeguarding national economic stability.
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