Cocoa farmers in the Central Region have called for stronger commitment to enforcing and strengthening laws that protect cocoa trees and farms, particularly in the face of increasing threats from illegal mining activities.
At a recent workshop held at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), the farmers emphasized the urgent need to raise awareness of existing laws designed to protect cocoa trees and farms. They pointed out that despite the existence of these laws, illegal mining continues to wreak havoc on cocoa farms, jeopardizing the livelihood of many farmers.
The country’s Economic Plants Protection Act of 1979, which protects economically valuable trees, such as cocoa, is already in place. However, farmers argue that many are unaware of this law, and traditional land arrangements in cocoa-growing communities are still enabling illegal activities, including the destruction of farms for mining purposes.
George Amoako Arthur, one of the farmers, stressed that it is critical for farmers to fully understand the current legal protections while also pushing for the strengthening of these laws. He also expressed his commitment to working with relevant agencies to boost cocoa productivity in the region.
Another farmer, Stephen Baidoo, called on landowners and the wider community to recognize the economic importance of cocoa and actively protect the trees that sustain both their livelihoods and the nation's economy.
The workshop, which was organized by the non-governmental organization SEND Ghana, brought together about 20 selected cocoa farmers from the region. It aimed to address the challenges facing cocoa farmers and find long-term solutions to improve productivity. Additionally, the event aimed to connect farmers with journalists and provide a platform for them to advocate for the support and policies they need.
In addition to strengthening legal protections, the farmers also called for the establishment of decentralized cocoa input shops to help them manage their farms more efficiently.
Harriet Nuamah Agyemang, the Country Director of SEND Ghana, urged the farmers to use media platforms to amplify their voices, raise awareness of the challenges they face, and advocate for policy changes. She also advised the farmers to communicate their needs effectively and work toward sustained productivity, given cocoa’s significant contribution to Ghana's socio-economic development.
Mrs. Agyemang also highlighted the need to address the galamsey (illegal mining) issue, which continues to damage cocoa production in the region.
Nii Djanie Antonio, an officer from COCOBOD, assured farmers that the board would continue to support them in maximizing the benefits from their cocoa crops. He cautioned them against selling their lands to illegal miners, stressing the long-term environmental and economic benefits of cocoa farming. He also encouraged them to report any illegal mining activities that damage their farms to COCOBOD officials.
Mr. Antonio further advised farmers to establish proper land-use agreements with landowners to prevent land disputes and unauthorized farm takeovers. He also provided guidance on effective farming techniques to optimize crop yields.
Nana Kwasi Ackah, a program officer at SEND Ghana, urged the farmers to unite and become vocal advocates for their well-being, while agricultural journalist Nana Yaw Reuben recommended that they form a cooperative to strengthen their collective voice and advocate for better support, efficiency, and productivity.
The call for stronger legal protections and greater awareness highlights the importance of safeguarding Ghana’s cocoa industry, both for the economic well-being of farmers and the country's future prosperity.
Source: Graphiconline
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
0 Comments