The Member of Parliament for Afigya Kwabre North, Collins Adomako-Mensah, has urged the government to engage cocoa farmers in honest and transparent discussions about the challenges confronting Ghana’s cocoa sector.
Speaking on Channel One TV, the MP warned that failure to openly communicate current market realities could worsen the financial difficulties facing the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) and threaten the long-term sustainability of the industry.
According to Adomako-Mensah, changes in the global cocoa market have made it increasingly difficult for the government to maintain previously promised purchasing terms without serious economic consequences. He stressed that farmers deserve clarity about the situation.
“The cocoa farmer is now agreeing that there are challenges; however, the government should come clean that this is the situation. So let us bear the brunt now, and when things improve, we will all come together and enjoy. I think that should be the narrative,” he stated.
The lawmaker emphasized the need for shared sacrifice, noting that transparency would help build trust between authorities and cocoa farmers during this challenging period. He argued that clear communication could prevent discontent and uncertainty within the sector.
Adomako-Mensah added that while the cocoa industry remains vital to Ghana’s economy, difficult decisions may be necessary in the short term. However, he assured that any future recovery should bring collective benefits to farmers, government, and all stakeholders involved in the cocoa value chain.
