The President of the Ghana National Cocoa Farmers Association (GNACOFA), Stephen Anane Boateng, has expressed deep disappointment over the recent cocoa price announcement, stating that farmers were anticipating a producer price not less than GHS 3,500 per bag.
Speaking on GhanAkoma on Akoma 87.9 FM on August 5, Mr. Boateng emphasized that expectations among cocoa farmers across the country had been high due to increased global market prices and the rising cost of farm inputs and labour.
“We were expecting not less than GHS 3,500,” he said, noting that anything below that figure does not reflect the true value of the farmers’ efforts nor the international market realities.
Rising Costs, Rising Concerns
Cocoa farmers have for years lamented the widening gap between the global cocoa price and the producer price set by Ghana’s Cocoa Marketing Board. This year, the situation has become more critical as input prices – including fertilizers, pesticides, and labour – have seen sharp increases.
“We are facing high production costs, and still many of our members are struggling to break even,” Mr. Boateng added.
Global Market Boost, But Local Frustration
The international cocoa market has experienced a surge in prices in recent months due to a combination of factors, including poor harvests in major cocoa-producing countries, supply chain disruptions, and increased global demand. Yet, despite this positive development globally, local farmers feel sidelined.
Many farmer advocacy groups believe that the current pricing structure leaves cocoa producers vulnerable and undercompensated, despite their vital role in supporting Ghana’s economy.
Call for Transparent Pricing and Farmer Support
Mr. Boateng has called on COCOBOD and the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to institute more transparent mechanisms that involve farmer representatives in pricing decisions. He further urged the government to ensure prompt payment and improved welfare policies for cocoa farmers to prevent exploitation.
“If government truly values the contribution of farmers to Ghana’s economy, then the pricing must reflect our real worth,” he stressed.
Looking Ahead
As the new cocoa season approaches, GNACOFA and other stakeholders are expected to ramp up pressure on authorities to revisit the pricing formula and align it more fairly with market conditions. The farmers are also advocating for subsidies on farm inputs and improved infrastructure to ease the cost burden on their operations.
For now, however, the sentiment on the ground remains one of frustration — and a firm demand for fairness.
