A cocoa purchasing clerk and farmer, Opanin Nana Kwadwo Yeboah, has claimed that the recent reduction in cocoa prices has delivered a devastating blow to the farming community, allegedly leading to shock-induced deaths among some producers.
Speaking on the recent announcement by Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, Opanin Yeboah described the decision as shocking and a significant breach of trust.
He expressed deep concern that the government failed to consult cocoa farmers before making such a “drastic decision”, especially given the promises made during the election cycle.
The clerk noted that while in opposition, the current administration made “mouth-watering” pledges, including a commitment to increase the price of cocoa to more than GH₵6,000 per bag.
Regarding the broken promises, Opanin Yeboah stated, “We are deeply disappointed in the government.” They could not keep their promises of giving us more money; rather, they have reduced the prices. As farmers, we trusted the government to deliver on its pledge to improve the sector and give farmers better prices, but today, they have reduced the prices.”
He further urged politicians to stop politicising the cocoa sector and to refrain from making promises they cannot fulfil.
He emphasised that the government should have engaged stakeholders before finalising the new rates.
“We should have been consulted before this decision was taken. They should not have gone to Cabinet and taken this terrible decision without the input of the farmers. But it has already happened. This should, however, be their first and the last. As farmers, we will advise ourselves.”
When asked if he was exaggerating the claim that the news had led to fatalities, Opanin Yeboah drew a parallel to the 2010 World Cup.
He recounted how Asamoah Gyan’s missed penalty—which would have secured Ghana a place in the semifinals—resulted in shock-induced deaths across the country, suggesting that financial heartbreak can be just as fatal.
While acknowledging the volatility of the global commodities market, Yeboah stressed that the primary issue is a lack of transparency. He noted that while world market prices fluctuate, the government owes it to the farmers to be honest rather than making unrealistic promises.
“The world market does not have stable pricing; at any point, it will go up or reduce,” he admitted. “But the important point is for the government to be candid with farmers and not lie to them.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
