Majority Leader Fires Back at Sefwi Cocoa Protesters – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing cocoa price crisis, Ghana’s Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, has launched a fierce rebuttal against cocoa farmers protesting in the Western North Region. The demonstrations, which have swept through Sefwi Wiawso, Juaboso, and Bia West, have drawn sharp criticism from the government, which claims the protests are politically motivated rather than a genuine grassroots outcry.

Key Points

Background

The cocoa price crisis in Ghana has reached a boiling point. In early 2026, the government announced a significant reduction in cocoa prices, citing economic necessity. This decision was met with immediate and fierce resistance from cocoa farmers, particularly in the Western North Region, where cocoa farming is a primary source of income.

The protests began in earnest in February 2026, with farmers in Sefwi Wiawso, Juaboso, and Bia West taking to the streets. Demonstrators argue that the 28% price drop, combined with soaring labor and fertilizer costs, amounts to a “death sentence” for their livelihoods. Many fear they will be forced to abandon their farms if prices remain low.

Analysis

The government’s stance, as articulated by Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, is that the protests are not a genuine expression of farmer grievances but rather a calculated political maneuver by opposition groups. Ayariga contends that the real farmers understand the economic realities facing COCOBOD and appreciate the government’s difficult decision.

At the heart of the government’s argument is the precarious financial state of COCOBOD, which it claims is burdened by liabilities inherited from the previous administration. The organization is also grappling with a downturn in international cocoa prices and a significant backlog of cocoa at the ports. According to the government, maintaining the previous price was simply not feasible.

However, the disconnect between parliamentary rhetoric and the reality on the ground is stark. Farmers in Sefwi Wiawso and other affected areas continue to express deep dissatisfaction, warning that the price cuts could devastate the local economy and force many to seek alternative livelihoods.

Practical Advice

For cocoa farmers facing the brunt of these price cuts, it is crucial to stay informed about government support programs and alternative income opportunities. Engaging with local agricultural extension officers and farmer cooperatives can provide valuable resources and advocacy channels. Additionally, exploring diversification into other crops or value-added cocoa products may help mitigate the impact of price volatility.

For policymakers, transparent communication and genuine engagement with farmer groups are essential to bridge the trust gap. Addressing the underlying economic challenges facing COCOBOD, while also providing targeted support to affected farmers, will be key to restoring stability in the cocoa sector.

FAQ

Conclusion

The cocoa price crisis in Ghana has exposed deep tensions between the government and the country’s vital cocoa farming communities. While the Majority Leader dismisses the protests as political theater, the reality on the ground suggests a genuine and widespread economic crisis. Bridging this divide will require not only sound economic policy but also sincere dialogue and support for those most affected. As the situation unfolds, the future of Ghana’s cocoa sector—and the livelihoods of thousands of farmers—hangs in the balance.