The Cashew Traders and Exporters Association of Ghana (CTEAG) has reiterated its urgent call for government intervention to safeguard the country’s cashew sector. In a recent interview, the National Organizer of CTEAG, Mr. Kwabena Owusu, expressed appreciation for farmers’ concerns and emphasized the need to protect their livelihoods while maintaining a fair and regulated market.
Cashew farmers in Kintampo, Bono East Region, have voiced concerns over the growing influence of unauthorized buyers in the market. They claim these buyers manipulate prices, either offering extremely low or artificially inflated amounts, undermining the stability of the trade.
One farmer described the situation as serious and appealed to the government, led by His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, to act immediately against what they described as a “canker” affecting their livelihoods. He warned that without intervention, the sector could face long-term challenges.
Farmers highlighted that they have received training in proper harvesting practices, ensuring that their cashew nuts meet high quality standards. Despite this, some buyers reportedly purchase nuts at GH¢5 per kilo, significantly below the standard GH¢15 per kilo. “We seek a fixed price throughout the season. If this continues, our cashew market may not survive,” the farmers stated.
Mr. Emmanuel Okrah, former chairman of CTEAG, urged the government to prioritize the cashew sector by strengthening support initiatives and establishing processing factories to boost economic value. He noted that cashew apples could be used for wine and other exports, creating additional revenue streams.
Mr. Owusu highlighted that Parliament has already passed the bill establishing Legislative Instrument (LI) 2023, which addresses key issues affecting the industry, including illegal buying, pricing distortions, and unlicensed foreign participation. He stressed, however, that the LI still requires full enforcement to ensure these protections take effect. Legal backing and rigorous implementation are crucial for the sector’s growth.
To enforce compliance and curb illegal practices, CTEAG has established task forces across major cashew-growing regions. These teams are tasked with monitoring trade activities, ensuring that buyers adhere to regulations, and protecting the interests of local farmers.
Mr. Owusu advised farmers to properly dry their cashew nuts before selling. He emphasized that well-dried nuts meet quality standards, command higher prices, and are better suited for both local and international markets. Continuous education on post-harvest handling remains a key priority.
“Cashew is Ghana’s new economic engine,” Mr. Owusu concluded. “By managing it ourselves, protecting local traders, and curbing illegal practices, we can expand production, increase exports, create jobs, and ensure that Ghanaian farmers fully benefit from this strategic crop.”
CTEAG continues to call on the government to take urgent steps to protect the sector. With proper regulation, investment in processing, and active support for farmers, Ghana’s cashew industry has the potential to become a major driver of economic growth and rural development.
