Cocoa farmers wood COCOBOD, accuse gov’t of betrayal over costs – Life Pulse Daily
Editor-in-chiefFebruary 21, 20264 Mins read10
Cocoa Farmers Protest COCOBOD Over Falling Prices and Delayed Payments
Introduction
Ghana’s cocoa farmers have taken to the streets in a powerful demonstration against the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), accusing the government of failing to protect their livelihoods. The protests, which have intensified in recent weeks, highlight the growing frustration among farmers over reduced cocoa prices and delayed payments that are pushing farming families into financial distress. This article explores the key issues behind the protests, the farmers’ demands, and the broader implications for Ghana’s vital cocoa industry.
Key Points
- Cocoa farmers picketed COCOBOD headquarters in Accra, demanding urgent action on falling prices and delayed payments.
- Protesters carried placards with messages like "We worked, you lied" and "We can't pay our kids' school fees."
- Farmers are demanding an immediate review of cocoa producer prices and settlement of outstanding payments owed by Licensed Buying Companies.
- The unrest follows similar protests in cocoa-growing regions, particularly in the Western North Region.
- COCOBOD has announced payments to Licensed Buying Companies, but farmers say relief has yet to reach them at the farmgate level.
Background
Ghana is the world’s second-largest cocoa producer, and the crop is a cornerstone of the country’s economy, providing livelihoods for hundreds of thousands of farming families. The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) is the government body responsible for regulating and supporting the cocoa sector, including setting producer prices and overseeing Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs) that purchase cocoa from farmers.
In recent months, cocoa farmers have faced mounting challenges. The government announced a reduction in the farmgate price for cocoa, citing global market volatility and the need to maintain the competitiveness of Ghana’s cocoa sector. However, this decision has been met with widespread anger among farmers, who argue that their earnings have been eroded despite their critical role in sustaining one of Ghana’s most important export sectors.
Analysis
The protests at COCOBOD headquarters in Accra are the latest in a series of demonstrations by cocoa farmers across Ghana. The farmers’ grievances center on two main issues: the reduction in cocoa prices and the delays in payments from LBCs.
Price Reductions and Economic Impact
Farmers argue that the recent downward adjustment in cocoa prices has made it increasingly difficult to cover basic household needs, including school fees, healthcare, and farm maintenance. “We rely entirely on cocoa. When payments delay or prices drop, our families suffer,” said one protester. The reduction in prices has also made it challenging for farmers to prepare for the next crop season due to a lack of funds.
Payment Delays and Systemic Issues
In addition to price reductions, farmers have complained about delays in receiving payments from LBCs. Although COCOBOD has announced payments to LBCs to facilitate farmer payments, many producers say the relief has yet to reach them at the farmgate level. This disconnect between policy announcements and on-the-ground realities has fueled further frustration among farmers.
Broader Challenges Facing Ghana’s Cocoa Sector
The unrest comes amid broader challenges facing Ghana’s cocoa sector, including cross-border price volatility, declining output in some regions, and financial pressures on COCOBOD. Farmer groups warn that without immediate intervention, many producers may abandon cocoa farming altogether or reduce investment in their farms, potentially affecting future production levels.
Practical Advice
For cocoa farmers facing financial difficulties due to falling prices and delayed payments, consider the following steps:
1. **Document All Transactions**: Keep detailed records of all cocoa sales, payments received, and communications with LBCs. This documentation can be crucial if disputes arise.
2. **Engage with Farmer Associations**: Join or actively participate in local farmer associations. These groups can provide collective bargaining power and a platform to voice concerns.
3. **Diversify Income Sources**: Explore opportunities to diversify income streams, such as intercropping or engaging in other agricultural activities, to reduce reliance on cocoa alone.
4. **Stay Informed**: Keep up-to-date with government policies and announcements related to the cocoa sector. Understanding the broader context can help in making informed decisions.
5. **Seek Financial Advice**: Consult with financial advisors or agricultural extension officers for guidance on managing finances and planning for the future.
FAQ
**Q: Why are cocoa farmers protesting against COCOBOD?**
A: Farmers are protesting due to falling cocoa prices and delayed payments from Licensed Buying Companies, which they say are pushing their families into financial hardship.
**Q: What are the main demands of the protesting farmers?**
A: Farmers are demanding an urgent review of cocoa producer prices and the settlement of outstanding payments owed to them by Licensed Buying Companies.
**Q: How has COCOBOD responded to the protests?**
A: COCOBOD has announced payments to Licensed Buying Companies to facilitate farmer payments, but many farmers say the relief has yet to reach them at the farmgate level.
**Q: What are the broader implications of the protests for Ghana’s cocoa sector?**
A: If the issues are not addressed, there is a risk that many farmers may abandon cocoa farming or reduce investment in their farms, potentially affecting future production levels.
Conclusion
The protests by cocoa farmers against COCOBOD underscore the deep-seated challenges facing Ghana’s cocoa sector. Falling prices, delayed payments, and broader economic pressures have created a perfect storm of frustration and hardship for farming families. While COCOBOD has taken steps to address some of these issues, the disconnect between policy and practice remains a significant concern. For the long-term sustainability of Ghana’s cocoa industry, it is crucial that the government and COCOBOD work closely with farmers to find lasting solutions that protect their livelihoods and ensure the sector’s continued growth.
Sources
– Life Pulse Daily. (2026, February 20). Cocoa farmers picket COCOBOD, accuse gov’t of betrayal over costs. Retrieved from [Life Pulse Daily](https://www.lifepulsedaily.com)
– Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD). Official website. Retrieved from [COCOBOD](https://www.cocobod.gh)
– Ghana News Agency. (2026, February 20). Cocoa farmers protest over price cuts and delayed payments. Retrieved from [GNA](https://www.ghananewsagency.org)
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