Ashanti cocoa farmers endorse Ghana Cocoa Board Act 2026

Cocoa farmers and traditional leaders across seven districts in the Ashanti Region have formally expressed their satisfaction with the Ghana Cocoa Board Act, 2026. During a series of engagement sessions organized by the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), stakeholders from the major cocoa-growing areas gathered to discuss the implications of the new legislation and the strategic direction of the industry for the current season. The dialogue served as a platform for COCOBOD to explain the regulatory shifts intended to modernize the sector and improve the livelihoods of those within the value chain.

Central to the discussions was the recently announced producer price for the new cocoa season. While many farmers admitted they had initially hoped for a higher price point, they acknowledged the rationale provided by COCOBOD regarding market dynamics and the financial sustainability of the industry. Beyond pricing, the farmers welcomed the structural reforms introduced by the 2026 Act but stressed the importance of enhanced public education to ensure every farmer fully understands how the new laws affect their operations. They also highlighted the critical need for the timely and equitable distribution of agricultural inputs to boost productivity.

The farming community used the engagement to advocate for specific welfare improvements, most notably the call for a more transparent administration of cocoa scholarships. Furthermore, there was a strong emphasis on the full implementation of a robust Farmer Pension Scheme. Farmers argued that such a scheme is essential for securing their financial welfare in their later years, providing a necessary safety net for those who have dedicated their lives to Ghana's primary cash crop.

In response to these concerns, COCOBOD’s Deputy Head of Public Affairs reaffirmed the board's commitment to maintaining an open line of communication and building trust with the farming community. The sessions in the Ashanti Region are part of a broader national strategy, with more engagements planned for other cocoa-growing regions. COCOBOD officials emphasized that these dialogues are vital for the long-term sustainability of the cocoa industry, ensuring that policy implementation is met with grassroots support and cooperation.