Ghanaian Farmers Urge Depoliticization of Cocoa Sector Amidst Allegations of Mismanagement

Nana Oboadie Boateng Bonsu II, President of the Concerned Farmers Association of Ghana, has expressed concern over the politicization of the nation's cocoa sector. He urged politicians to refrain from interfering in the operations of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) to facilitate necessary reforms.

Speaking in Sunyani following a reduction in cocoa producer prices, Nana Bonsu stated, "Political interference often breeds corruption," highlighting that such involvement has led to significant debt accumulation within the sector with minimal accountability.

He referenced COCOBOD's procurement of jute bags worth millions of US dollars, questioning their availability and transparency in the process. Nana Bonsu emphasized that allowing qualified individuals to manage the cocoa sector without political interference would help restore order and reduce corruption.

The Licensed Cocoa Buyers Association of Ghana (LICOBAG) has also raised concerns about excessive political interference at COCOBOD, warning that it poses a serious threat to the sustainability of the country's cocoa industry.

Nana Bonsu called on the government to investigate COCOBOD's debt and alleged mismanagement, advocating for the prosecution of those responsible to deter similar actions in the future. He noted that farmers bear the brunt of these challenges, often receiving minimal benefits despite their significant contributions to cocoa production.

He urged COCOBOD to engage regularly with farmer groups to address emerging issues and called for increased transparency and accountability within the organization. Nana Bonsu also encouraged the government to extend its national reform agenda to the cocoa sector, emphasizing its critical role in Ghana's economic development.