Minority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has called on the government to refocus attention on Ghana’s cocoa sector, warning that farmers across the country are facing worsening hardship.
His remarks follow engagements with cocoa farmers during the Minority Caucus’ nationwide tour of cocoa-growing communities.
According to him, the situation on the ground remains dire, with farmers grappling with reduced producer prices and delays in payments.
Also read: US failed to gain Iran’s trust during talks, Tehran delegation leader says
“As we continue our engagements with cocoa farmers across the country, one thing remains clear — our farmers are in distress, and the government must act with urgency,” he stated.
Mr Annoh-Dompreh further criticised what he described as misplaced spending priorities, alleging that public funds are being directed into party-related activities while a critical sector of the economy suffers neglect.
“It is deeply troubling that while cocoa farmers are struggling with reduced prices and delayed payments, significant public funds are reportedly being spent monthly on party structures. This raises serious questions about priorities,” he said.
He stressed that cocoa farmers, who remain central to Ghana’s economy, deserve deliberate policy support and immediate intervention.
“Our farmers, who sustain a critical sector of the economy, deserve better than neglect and excuses,” he added.
The Minority Caucus is therefore urging the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) to redirect resources towards the cocoa sector, describing it as the backbone of the economy.
Mr Annoh-Dompreh called for urgent measures, including the restoration of fair producer prices and prompt payments to farmers.
“I strongly believe that the focus must shift immediately. The NDC government must prioritise the cocoa sector by restoring fair producer prices and ensuring prompt payment to farmers,” he stressed.
He added that public funds must be channelled into improving livelihoods rather than politically motivated expenditures.
“Redirecting resources to support livelihoods, rather than politically driven expenditures, is the only responsible path forward,” he noted.
Reaffirming the Minority’s commitment, he assured that the Caucus will continue to advocate for cocoa farmers until their concerns are fully addressed.
“We will not relent. We will continue to stand with our farmers and fight for what is right until justice is restored,” he stressed.