Oppong Nkrumah Slams Government for Cocoa Price Cuts and Unpaid Farmers
Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Ofoase Ayirebi, has strongly criticized the government for its mismanagement of the cocoa sector, highlighting the severe financial strain faced by cocoa farmers.
During a meeting with angry farmers in Konongo, Oppong Nkrumah slammed the government’s decision to reduce cocoa prices from GH¢3,625 to GH¢2,587, noting that this price drop has plunged farmers into significant hardship. According to the MP, the situation has worsened as many farmers are still awaiting payments for their crops, with some yet to be paid by the state.
He also placed blame on the management of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), stating that their failure to sell the cocoa beans at the right time has further exacerbated the problem, leading to cash flow issues for farmers.
Oppong Nkrumah went on to remind the public of the promises made by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) during their time in opposition, where they vowed to raise cocoa prices to GH¢7,000. However, now in power, the government has failed to fulfill this commitment. The MP emphasized that the government’s inability to honor its promises has left cocoa farmers vulnerable, with many struggling to sustain their livelihoods.
Oppong Nkrumah has urged the government to take immediate action to address the cocoa price reduction and ensure farmers are paid on time, which he believes is crucial to saving the livelihoods of thousands of cocoa growers across the country.
In addition, the MP highlighted the ongoing protest by cocoa farmers, who have resorted to meeting with the minority caucus in Parliament to voice their grievances and demand fair compensation.
