Mr Abu Kansangbata, a former Deputy Upper West Regional Minister, has urged the government to address various factors affecting cocoa production in Ghana. He believes that addressing these issues is crucial for restoring confidence in cocoa production and rejuvenating the struggling cocoa sector.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency in Accra, Mr Kansangbata emphasized the need for government intervention to tackle challenges such as smuggling activities, illegal gold mining, and the prevalence of swollen shoot disease. While acknowledging that weather conditions and erratic rainfall patterns pose challenges beyond immediate government control, he stressed the importance of addressing controllable factors to improve the industry's prospects.
Mr. Kansangbata noted that despite ongoing efforts to mitigate these challenges, the immediate impact of interventions remains uncertain. He highlighted initiatives such as farm rehabilitation and collaboration with security agencies to curb smuggling as steps in the right direction. However, he emphasized the need for expedited action to boost cocoa production and restore Ghana's position as a leading cocoa producer.
The significant decline in cocoa output for the 2023/24 season, nearly 40% below the target set by COCOBOD, has raised concerns about economic stability and global cocoa markets. Cocoa is a vital component of Ghana's economy, contributing to government revenue, employment, and foreign exchange earnings. Therefore, Mr. Kansangbata stressed the urgency of revitalizing the cocoa sector to safeguard economic resilience and prosperity.
Samuel Adimado, the president of Ghana's cocoa buyers group, echoed Mr Kansangbata's concerns and emphasized the need for immediate action to address the production shortfall. Mr Kansangbata called on the government to prioritize cocoa as a key revenue-generating avenue to promote economic growth and ensure long-term prosperity for the nation.
In conclusion, urgent action and comprehensive strategies are essential to revitalize the cocoa sector and secure Ghana's economic stability amidst challenges facing the industry.
