Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has strongly criticised the management of Ghana’s cocoa sector, specifically targeting the Ghana Cocoa Board (Cocobod) for what he describes as misplaced priorities and financial mismanagement. Speaking during an interview on Sunrise FM on Friday, November 22, at the conclusion of his five-day tour of the Eastern Region, Mahama expressed his concerns over the decline in cocoa production and the excessive expenditures at Cocobod’s Accra headquarters.
Mahama did not hold back in his critique of Cocobod’s financial practices, highlighting how these decisions are adversely affecting cocoa farmers, who form the backbone of Ghana’s cocoa industry. He stated that while farmers continue to struggle with limited support and resources, Cocobod has chosen to spend significant sums on what he described as unnecessary luxuries.
“Cocoa farmers have been struggling for a long time, and yet Cocobod finds it appropriate to spend huge sums of money on its headquarters,” Mahama said. “This is unacceptable. Over the past four years, cocoa production has fallen to 555,000 tonnes, while Cocobod’s headquarters expenditure has ballooned to an alarming GHC3.4 billion in 2023. How does this benefit our hardworking farmers? They are rather spending it on cars and undeserving salaries.”
Mahama expressed his disappointment over the disconnect between Cocobod’s spending priorities and the needs of the cocoa farmers who rely on the sector for their livelihoods. He emphasized that Ghana’s cocoa farmers deserve better support to overcome challenges such as fluctuating prices, climate change, and a lack of access to modern farming techniques and resources.
The former president also drew attention to the troubling decline in cocoa production over the years. According to him, production levels have fallen significantly, a trend that he attributed to poor management and inadequate investment in critical areas of the cocoa value chain. Mahama believes that reversing this decline requires a shift in priorities, with more emphasis on empowering farmers and improving productivity.
Citing specific examples, Mahama accused Cocobod of allocating funds to non-essential expenses rather than investing in initiatives that directly benefit farmers. He pointed out that the billions spent on headquarters-related expenditures could have been redirected to provide better support for farmers, including subsidies for fertilizers, access to high-yield cocoa seedlings, and training on sustainable farming practices.
In addition to his criticisms, Mahama outlined his plans to revamp Ghana’s cocoa sector and provide better support for farmers if elected president in 2024. He assured farmers that an NDC-led government would prioritize their welfare and work to ensure that the cocoa industry becomes a sustainable and profitable venture for all stakeholders.
“We have said that we will do better with the management of the cocoa sector. Cocoa farmers will benefit immensely under our government. We plan to implement year-round irrigation in cocoa-growing areas and build cocoa processing plants to add value locally,” he said.
One of Mahama’s key proposals is the introduction of year-round irrigation systems in cocoa-growing areas. He believes that providing farmers with access to consistent water supply will help mitigate the impact of erratic rainfall patterns and improve crop yields. This measure, according to Mahama, will not only boost production but also increase the income levels of cocoa farmers, who often face financial difficulties during off-peak seasons.
Another major pillar of Mahama’s plan is the establishment of cocoa processing plants within cocoa-growing communities. He explained that by processing cocoa locally, Ghana can add value to its exports and increase the earnings of both farmers and the nation as a whole. This initiative is also expected to create job opportunities for people in rural areas, further enhancing the livelihoods of cocoa-growing communities.
Mahama also emphasized the importance of fair pricing for cocoa farmers. He expressed his commitment to ensuring that farmers receive a fair share of the revenues generated from cocoa exports. He believes that establishing transparent pricing mechanisms and eliminating exploitative practices in the supply chain will help restore trust and confidence in the sector.
During the interview, Mahama reflected on his previous tenure as president and highlighted some of the initiatives his administration undertook to support cocoa farmers. He mentioned programs such as the free distribution of fertilizers and cocoa seedlings, as well as efforts to improve rural infrastructure in cocoa-growing areas. He assured farmers that an NDC government would build on these successes and address the shortcomings that have plagued the sector in recent years.
Mahama’s critique of Cocobod and his vision for the cocoa sector have sparked conversations among stakeholders in the industry. Many farmers have expressed their frustrations over the challenges they face, including rising production costs, low farmgate prices, and a lack of access to credit facilities. Mahama’s promises of reform and investment in the sector have been met with cautious optimism, as farmers hope for tangible changes that will improve their livelihoods.
The cocoa industry is a vital part of Ghana’s economy, contributing significantly to export revenues and providing employment for millions of people. However, the sector has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including declining production, competition from other cocoa-producing countries, and the impact of climate change. Addressing these challenges requires bold and innovative solutions, and Mahama believes that his proposed reforms can help reposition Ghana as a global leader in cocoa production.
As the 2024 general election approaches, Mahama’s critique of Cocobod and his plans for the cocoa sector are likely to be key issues in the campaign. He has called on cocoa farmers and other stakeholders to support his vision for a revitalized and inclusive cocoa industry.
In his concluding remarks, Mahama reiterated his commitment to the welfare of cocoa farmers and the sustainable development of the cocoa sector. He urged farmers to remain hopeful and assured them that an NDC government would prioritize their needs and work tirelessly to address the challenges facing the industry.
“We will not rest until we see a cocoa sector that works for everyone, especially the hardworking farmers who make it all possible,” Mahama said. “Together, we can build a brighter future for Ghana’s cocoa industry and ensure that our farmers receive the support and recognition they deserve.”
