A/R: Chief Farmer Warns Government Against New Cocoa Price, Says It Will Fuel Smuggling
Nana Kwaku Siaw, the Ejisu Municipal Chief Farmer and Nkosuohene of Anwomaso, who doubles as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Kuma Farms has cautioned the government against the low cocoa price of GHC. 3000.00 per bag, warning that it will lead to increased smuggling activities.
In an interview with the press, Nana Kwaku Siaw expressed concern that this price does not reflect the true value of the crop, considering production costs, global market trends, and Ghanaian cocoa quality. He emphasized that cocoa price decisions significantly impact the livelihoods of millions of farmers and their families in the Ashanti Region and Ghana. If the price remains low, farmers will be tempted to smuggle their cocoa to neighboring countries for better prices.
Additionally, Nana Kwaku Siaw called for collective efforts to combat the galamsey menace, which has devastated water bodies, forest reserves, and other resources. He stressed that politicians must cooperate to fight galamsey, as they often mastermind these activities. Deploying helicopters would aid in surveillance and enforcement, he suggested.
The Chief Farmer’s warning highlights the urgent need for action to ensure fair cocoa prices, prevent smuggling, and address the galamsey menace threatening Ghana’s environment and resources. The government must take swift action to address these concerns and support farmers and communities affected.
Nana Kwaku Siaw also urged the government to provide support services to farmers, such as training and inputs, to improve productivity and quality. This would help farmers to negotiate better prices and reduce their reliance on smuggling.
The Ejisu Municipal Chief Farmer’s concerns are shared by many stakeholders in the cocoa industry, who are calling for a comprehensive approach to address the challenges facing cocoa farmers. By addressing these concerns, the government can ensure a sustainable cocoa industry that benefits farmers, communities, and the national economy.
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