Some cocoa farmers continue to vent their displeasure at the recent price cuts, lamenting the new reduction would heavily impact their livelihoods.
Farmers in Mankranso, Kunsu, Adaadekrom, Wiaso, and other surrounding communities in the Ahafo Ano south west joined the nationwide calls for a reversal of the prices as they protested the 28% price reductions.
Government has announced a new producer price, selling at GH¢2,587 per 64-kilogramme bag.
The protesters wielding placards with inscriptions such as “Fa sɔ so,” “Akuafo Nsuɔ,” and “Ato Adaadaa Yɛn” among others, expressed their frustration and disappointment at the recent announcement.
A leading cocoa farmer in the area, Kwaku Babidehye, accused the government of neglecting the farmers.
“If cocoa officials fall sick, they travel abroad for treatment. What about the farmer? It is unfair,” he stated.
The farmers further allege they are yet to be paid the new prices despite government assurances of settling all outstanding amounts.
The farmers explain several bags of cocoa beans remain at the Produce Buying Company (PBC) depots without payment.
They say the prolonged delay is throwing them into severe hardship and complicating farmers with health challenges.
According to them, a majority of the cocoa farmers in the area are elderly persons who depend on proceeds from their cocoa sales to absorb their medical bills and daily living expenses.
The farmers are calling on the government to urgently intervene, warning that their situation is worsening.
Aunty Akosua, a cocoa farmer, narrated that she must commute over ten kilometres to her farm, yet has not received payment for the past three months.
“President Mahama has disappointed us. At least, if you cannot increase the price, maintain the previous price of GH¢3,100. I was heartbroken when I heard about the reduction,” she said.
The farmers anticipate a positive response from the government to resolve their plight and offer them relief for their toils on the farm.
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