The minority caucus in Parliament has reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the interests of cocoa farmers, ensuring they derive optimal benefits from their labour to enhance their livelihoods.
This assurance was made during a courtesy visit to Osuodumgya Barima Appiahgya Boafo, Paramount Chief of the Hwidiem Traditional Area, and Nana Osei Kofi Abre II, Paramount Chief of the Kenyasi Number One Traditional Area in the Ahafo Region.
Frank Annoh-Dompreh, Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyiri and Minority Chief Whip, stated the caucus’s dedication to amplifying the concerns of cocoa farmers in Parliament while holding the government accountable for their actions.
According to him, the visit aimed to engage farmers directly, understand the challenges affecting their socio-economic wellbeing, and explore solutions to issues hindering growth in the cocoa sector.
He described the traditional authorities as key stakeholders in the cocoa value chain.
He added that cocoa remains a vital component of Ghana’s economy and farmers must be treated equitably.
“Our visits are driven by growing concerns of cocoa farmers nationwide in connection with the recent reduction in cocoa producer price and delays in payments to cocoa farmers,” he said.
On his part. Osuodumgya Barima Appiahgya Boafo, Paramount Chief of the Hwidiem Traditional Area, also raised concerns over the delayed payments, noting that the situation has adversely affected the livelihoods of many cocoa farmers and their families.
He admonished the government to expedite payments, emphasising that prioritising the welfare of farmers is critical to sustaining cocoa production and ensuring the delivery of quality beans.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
