Minority caucus engages Ahafo Chiefs over cocoa price crisis
The Minority Caucus in Parliament has intensified its nationwide engagement with cocoa farmers, beginning a key phase of its “Cocoa Farmers Forum” in the Ahafo Region amid growing concerns over falling cocoa prices and delayed payments.
On Tuesday, a delegation led by the Minority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, paid courtesy calls on traditional authorities to officially notify them of the exercise and seek their blessings ahead of direct interactions with cocoa farmers.
The team visited prominent chiefs including Nana Osei Kofi Abirie, Omanhene of Ahafo Kenyasi No. 1 in the Asutifi North Municipality; Osuodogya Barima Appiahgya Boafo of Hweidiem in the Asutifi South District; and Osahene Kwaku Atekyi II of Kukuom in the Asunafo South District.
Addressing the chiefs, Mr. Annoh-Dompreh underscored the urgency of the situation confronting cocoa farmers, citing recent price reductions, unpaid arrears, and other systemic challenges affecting the sector.
“We are here to listen to our farmers and stand with them in these difficult times. The challenges they face—from price cuts to delayed payments—require immediate attention and decisive action,” he stated.
He further reaffirmed the Minority Caucus’ resolve to demand accountability from government while pushing for policies that safeguard the livelihoods of cocoa farmers.
“Our mission is to ensure that the voices of cocoa farmers are heard and that practical steps are taken to protect their incomes and sustain the industry,” he added.
Responding on behalf of the traditional authorities, Nana Osei Kofi Abirie expressed deep concern about the worsening conditions in cocoa-growing communities and called for swift intervention.
“The hardship facing cocoa farmers is alarming. There is an urgent need for government to act decisively to restore confidence in the sector and improve the living standards of our people,” he said.
The Minority Caucus is expected to continue its tour across other parts of the Ahafo Region before extending the exercise to the Bono Region, as part of a broader effort to engage stakeholders and advocate for fairness, accountability, and sustainable reforms in Ghana’s cocoa industry.
Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com
