Mahama promises better cocoa price, 200,000-hectare boost
By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi
President John Dramani Mahama has assured cocoa farmers of a significantly improved cocoa producer price to be announced in August 2025, as part of his plan to revitalize Ghana’s struggling cocoa industry.
Addressing a gathering of farmers and community members during his Thank You Tour in the Ahafo Region on Saturday, May 31, President Mahama said his administration is committed to addressing the challenges faced by farmers and restoring the cocoa sector to its former strength.
“Plans are underway to revamp the collapsed cocoa sector. Incentives will be provided to our hardworking farmers to increase cocoa production. We aim to add 200,000 hectares of cocoa to Ghana’s output in order to increase the income of our farmers,” President Mahama said.
The president noted that the sector has faced significant difficulties in recent years, including declining production and farmer dissatisfaction with pricing. He said the new cocoa producer price, expected in August, will be highly favorable to farmers.
“To cocoa farmers, the COCOBOD chief executive has informed me that in August, they will announce the new cocoa producer price. And I can assure you, the price is going to be a very, very, very good price,” he stated.
He emphasized the importance of fair pricing and sustainable support for farmers as key strategies to revive the cocoa sector, which remains a vital contributor to Ghana’s economy. The expansion plan, targeting an additional 200,000 hectares of cocoa farms, is expected to boost production and create more income opportunities for farmers.
Mr. Mahama’s comments come amid growing concern from cocoa farmers over declining yields, rising production costs, and the impact of smuggling and illegal mining activities on cocoa-growing communities.The president reaffirmed his commitment to agricultural transformation, highlighting cocoa as a key driver for job creation, economic growth, and better livelihoods for rural communities.
