The Minority Caucus in Parliament has moved its campaign in support of cocoa farmers to the Central Region amid growing frustration over prices and delayed payments.
Led by Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, the delegation visited Obengkrom in the Ajumako Enyan Essiam Constituency, where Cocoa Farmers and traditional leaders voiced concern about worsening hardship in the sector.
The engagement forms part of the Minority’s broader nationwide tour to cocoa-growing communities as Cocoa Farmers continue to demand fair producer prices, prompt payments, and stronger policy support.
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At the gathering, several farmers appealed to President John Dramani Mahama, accusing the government of failing to fulfil campaign promises made to cocoa producers ahead of the 2024 general elections.
Many said lower producer prices and delayed payments have significantly reduced incomes, making it increasingly difficult to care for their families and maintain their farms.
One emotional moment came when a woman farmer disclosed that she had used the President’s name to secure loans in anticipation of improved cocoa prices and better living conditions.
Her remarks resonated strongly with the crowd and reflected the growing disappointment among many farming households.
Traditional leaders also added their voices to the concerns.
The chief of Obengkrom criticised the handling of the cocoa sector and said farmers were losing confidence in government interventions.
His comments underscored wider frustrations among community leaders who believe cocoa remains the backbone of many local economies and deserves urgent policy attention.
John Ntim Fordjour told the gathering that cocoa farmers deserve fair treatment and meaningful support rather than political rhetoric.
He stressed that the challenges confronting the sector require practical interventions to restore confidence and improve livelihoods.
Isaac Yaw Opoku drew loud reactions when he vowed to stage a naked protest if cocoa producer prices are reduced again.
Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin defended the New Patriotic Party’s record, arguing that successive NPP governments introduced several social intervention programmes aimed at improving the welfare of ordinary Ghanaians, including cocoa farmers.
He assured farmers that the Minority would continue to champion their concerns both in Parliament and across the country until effective solutions are implemented.
The Central Regional engagement highlights the intensifying national debate over cocoa pricing and sector reforms.
With cocoa remaining one of Ghana’s most important economic pillars, the concerns raised by farmers are expected to remain central to public and political discussions in the months ahead.