Inusah Fuseini requires more potent cocoa manufacturing techniques – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

Ghana’s cocoa sector faces a pivotal moment as farmers protest over reduced producer prices and policymakers grapple with the challenge of ensuring a stable cocoa supply for both export and domestic processing. Inusah Fuseini, former Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, has called for stronger, more reliable cocoa manufacturing techniques to address these pressing issues. This article explores the context, implications, and practical steps needed to safeguard Ghana’s cocoa industry.

Key Points

Background

Ghana is the world’s second-largest cocoa producer, and the crop is a cornerstone of the national economy. The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) sets producer prices annually, balancing global market trends, production costs, and farmer welfare. In February 2026, farmers from districts including Sefwi Wiawso, Juaboso, and Bia West organized protests, citing a sharp drop in the price per bag of cocoa. Their placards—”Restore Our Price Now” and “Cocoa Sustains Ghana, Don’t Neglect Farmers”—underscored their frustration over rising expenses for labor, fertilizer, and transportation, which they say are not offset by the new price.

Analysis

Economic Pressures on Cocoa Farmers

The reduction in producer prices comes at a time when input costs are climbing. Farmers argue that the new rate barely covers their expenses, threatening livelihoods and potentially reducing future cocoa output. This situation risks destabilizing Ghana’s cocoa supply chain and undermining the sector’s contribution to GDP and foreign exchange earnings.

Government Ambitions vs. Supply Realities

The government has set ambitious goals to increase domestic cocoa processing, aiming to add value locally and boost export revenues. However, as Inusah Fuseini points out, these plans hinge on a reliable supply of cocoa beans. Past failures to fulfill export contracts reveal systemic weaknesses in production and supply management, raising doubts about the feasibility of new processing targets without first securing a stable bean supply.

Need for Robust Manufacturing Techniques

Fuseini’s call for more potent cocoa manufacturing techniques is not just about processing efficiency—it’s about creating a resilient supply chain. This includes investing in modern farming practices, better storage and logistics, and transparent pricing mechanisms that protect farmers’ interests while ensuring processors have the raw materials they need.

Practical Advice

For Policymakers

• Establish a transparent, farmer-inclusive pricing mechanism that accounts for input costs and market realities.
• Invest in agricultural extension services to boost productivity and sustainability.
• Develop infrastructure for storage and transportation to reduce post-harvest losses.
• Strengthen monitoring and compliance systems to ensure export contracts are met.

For Farmers

• Form or join cooperatives to improve bargaining power and access to resources.
• Adopt best practices for cocoa cultivation, including proper pruning, pest control, and soil management.
• Engage with local COCOBOD offices for timely information on pricing and support programs.

For Industry Stakeholders

• Collaborate with research institutions to innovate and improve cocoa processing techniques.
• Support traceability initiatives to ensure quality and build trust with international buyers.
• Advocate for policies that balance farmer welfare with industry growth.

FAQ

Conclusion

The challenges facing Ghana’s cocoa sector require coordinated action from government, farmers, and industry stakeholders. By adopting more potent cocoa manufacturing techniques and ensuring a stable, fair supply chain, Ghana can protect its vital cocoa industry, support farmer livelihoods, and achieve its ambitions for increased domestic processing. The path forward demands both immediate reforms and long-term investments in people and infrastructure.