Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has said cocoa farmers and many Ghanaians are looking to New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Mahamudu Bawumia, for leadership and practical solutions to address the growing challenges confronting the country’s cocoa sector.
According to Mr. Annoh-Dompreh, cocoa farmers expect Dr. Bawumia to provide a credible and honest alternative that will restore confidence in an industry that remains a critical pillar of Ghana’s economy.
His remarks came when a special committee constituted by the Minority Caucus presented its report on conditions in cocoa-growing communities across the country to Dr. Bawumia.
The committee was established following concerns over recent developments in the cocoa industry, particularly the government’s decision to reduce the cocoa producer price for the remainder of the 2025/2026 crop season.
On February 12, government announced a reduction in the producer price to GH¢41,392 per tonne, equivalent to GH¢2,587 per bag. The decision has generated widespread debate among farmers and stakeholders within the cocoa value chain, many of whom have expressed concerns about its impact on livelihoods and production.
To gain firsthand knowledge of the situation, the Minority Caucus embarked on a nationwide tour of cocoa-growing communities, engaging farmers and gathering views on the challenges affecting the sector.
Presenting the committee’s findings, Mr. Annoh-Dompreh said the expectations of cocoa farmers were high and that many believed Dr. Bawumia possessed the experience and credibility to propose workable solutions.
“The Ghanaian people are waiting to hear from their saviour. They know you will be able to say something that will be assuring, and not just assuring, also an honest statement for them to know that you will not just come and make a promise that cannot be fulfilled,” Mr. Annoh-Dompreh stated.
He said the concerns raised by farmers ranged from producer pricing and access to farm inputs to broader issues affecting productivity and the long-term sustainability of the cocoa industry.
The Minority Chief Whip noted that the committee’s report contains recommendations aimed at improving the welfare of cocoa farmers and strengthening the sector.
According to him, the findings are expected to contribute to ongoing policy discussions on how best to stabilise Ghana’s cocoa industry and ensure that farmers receive fair returns for their labour.
The cocoa sector remains one of Ghana’s most important economic pillars, providing employment for hundreds of thousands of farmers and generating significant foreign exchange earnings for the country.
Observers say the concerns raised by farmers highlight the urgent need for sustainable policies that will enhance productivity, improve farmer incomes and secure the future of the industry.
With cocoa farmers demanding answers and the sector facing mounting challenges, attention is now turning to Dr. Bawumia and other political leaders to outline their vision for reviving one of Ghana’s most valuable national assets.
