Cocoa farmers have been encouraged to cultivate a savings culture during the peak harvest season to cushion themselves against hardships and reduce excessive borrowing during lean periods.
Industry stakeholders say that the growing reliance on loans in the off-season often traps farmers in crippling debt, threatening the stability of farming households.
Speaking at a capacity-building workshop for women in the cocoa value chain in Nkrankwanta, District Cocoa Officer Johnson Asumah warned against reckless spending, stressing that prudent financial management is key to breaking the cycle of debt.
Over 300 women attended the training, which introduced alternative livelihoods such as organic pesticide production, fish farming, snail rearing, and soap making.
Community Extension Agent Mercy Bempomaa Oduro-Gyan emphasized the importance of income diversification, noting that it would help women provide consistent support for their families throughout the year. She urged participants to apply the knowledge acquired to transform their economic well-being.
Source: Dominic Donyina
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