President John Dramani Mahama asserts that the reduction of cocoa producer prices was a necessary measure to ensure economic stability.
In response to concerns raised by cocoa farmers regarding the recent price reduction announcement, the president explained that the decision was unavoidable.
Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson had previously announced a downward revision of the cocoa producer price to GH¢41,392 per tonne, or GH¢2,587 per bag, for the remainder of the 2025/2026 crop season.
Widespread criticism has followed this announcement, with the minority in Parliament calling for a reversal of the decision.
While some cocoa farmers have expressed disappointment, President Mahama, in his 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) to Parliament, clarified that the move aimed to address severe liquidity challenges within the cocoa sector.
He noted that maintaining the previous price would have necessitated government borrowing of billions, potentially undermining the country’s recent economic progress.
The president stressed that the decision, although difficult, was guided by prudent economic judgement and the broader national interest.
“The difference between economic hardship and avoiding the same is the exercise of sound economic judgement. I am determined to make decisions that ensure our collective wellbeing and prevent the sufferings of all our citizens. These are decisions to take, but Mr Speaker, I had to take them,” he said.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
