Cocoa farmers in Ghana's Ashanti Region have endorsed the new Ghana Cocoa Board Bill, 2026. They support key reforms designed to protect their interests and strengthen the cocoa industry. This backing emerged during a major sensitization rally organized by the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) in Konongo.
The farmers, from areas including Juaben, Asiwa, Juaso, and Konongo, welcomed the legislation. Parliament passed the Bill just a week before this engagement. The rally attracted over 400 participants, marking the first large farmer gathering since the Bill's passage. COCOBOD aimed to provide accurate information directly to farmers and other grassroots stakeholders.
This development fits into Ghana's broader economic strategy to safeguard its vital cocoa sector. Cocoa contributes significantly to Ghana's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and foreign exchange earnings. Protecting cocoa farms from illegal mining and ensuring farmer welfare are critical for national economic stability. The Bill's focus on sustainability aligns with Ghana's long-term agricultural development goals.
Dr. Richard Adu Acheampong, Executive Director of the Cocoa Health and Extension Division (CHED), led discussions. He clarified that the Bill does not prohibit cultivating food crops on cocoa farms. He also assured farmers that the Bill does not transfer farm ownership to COCOBOD. Instead, it protects farms from unlawful destruction and conversion to incompatible uses, like illegal mining.
The new Bill has several important implications for Ghana's cocoa sector. It aims to improve farmer welfare, producer pricing, and the Cocoa Farmers Pension Scheme. It also includes measures against cocoa smuggling and illegal land destruction. The legislation seeks to strengthen governance and financial sustainability within the sector. Decision-makers will monitor its implementation to ensure these benefits reach farmers effectively.
The Municipal Chief Executive for Asante Akim North, Hon. Sarah Amoako, praised COCOBOD's grassroots engagement. She highlighted the cocoa industry's significant contribution to Ghana's socioeconomic development. Hon. Amoako noted that direct engagement helps farmers understand the reforms and seek clarifications. This ensures those most affected by the changes are well-informed.
A key provision of the Bill refocuses COCOBOD on its core mandate. It restricts the institution from undertaking quasi-fiscal activities, such as constructing cocoa roads. Hon. Amoako urged farmers to engage local assemblies for road infrastructure and other development needs. This allows COCOBOD to concentrate on regulating, developing, and promoting Ghana's cocoa industry. Other state institutions will handle broader community development.
Farmers actively participated, seeking clarification on various issues. These included the Cocoa Farmers Pension Scheme, educational support for children, and agricultural financing. They also inquired about illegal mining, cocoa roads, and compensation. Farmers welcomed the reforms and requested continued sensitization and consultation. This ensures all cocoa farmers fully understand the new legal framework and its impact on their livelihoods. The Bill represents a significant step towards a more secure and sustainable future for Ghana's cocoa industry and its farmers.