FARMER GENERAL NANA OBOADIE BOATENG BONSU SPEAKS ON COCOA PAYMENT ISSUES

The Concern Cocoa Farmers Association of Ghana has raised concerns about delayed payments by some Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs), even though the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) is said to have released funds. Speaking in a phone interview on ICAD TV’s “Ghana Nti” morning show hosted by Nana Nhyiraba Kwabena Asirifi, Farmer General Nana Oboadie Boateng Bonsu, President of the association, said some farmers are still waiting for their money after selling cocoa. He said this situation is unfair and is causing financial difficulties for farmers, who should not have to chase payment after selling their produce. He also alleged that some LBCs are using unfair methods such as tampered weighing scales, which reduce the amount of cocoa recorded and shortchange farmers. He further raised concerns about unlicensed cocoa buyers operating in some communities, saying some buy cocoa illegally and disappear after transactions. Farmer General Nana Oboadie Boateng Bonsu called on authorities to properly check and regulate all Licensed Buying Companies to ensure only genuine operators are allowed to buy cocoa. He also expressed concern about illegal mining activities destroying farmlands, warning that it threatens cocoa farming and farmers’ livelihoods. He urged stronger leadership and better accountability to improve conditions for cocoa farmers in Ghana.