Nana Yaa Asantewaa, Public Relations Officer for the Ghana National Cocoa Farmers Association (GNACOFA), has disputed claims that all cocoa farmers have received their outstanding arrears, despite recent disbursements announced by the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD).
Speaking on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM’s flagship news programme, Nyankonton Mu Nsem, Madam Asantewaa lamented that many farmers across the country are struggling to survive while being hounded by creditors for unpaid loans.
She revealed that some farmers who supplied up to ten bags of cocoa were paid for only a single bag and asked to return later for the balance.
“Indeed, payments were released; however, it was insufficient to pay all the outstanding arrears owed us. Our farmers are struggling. Some of them are unable to fend for themselves and their families. We are therefore admonishing authorities to prioritise these payments,” she stated.
Earlier this month, COCOBOD issued a statement confirming the release of GH¢2.6 billion to Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs) to settle cocoa purchases across growing regions.
Out of this disbursement, GH¢1.4 billion was earmarked specifically to clear debts owed for cocoa bought on credit.
COCOBOD noted that it has disbursed a total of GH¢34.52 billion to LBCs since the start of the 2025/26 crop season for onward payment to growers.
Despite these releases, GNACOFA maintains that the funds fell short of resolving the systemic debt.
Nana Yaa Asantewaa expressed hope that Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, who currently oversees the cocoa sector, will address the lingering arrears during the upcoming Mid-Year Budget Review to ensure all remaining debts are cleared without further delay.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana