ISAAC OPOKU URGES STABLE COCOA PRICING AND STRONGER PROTECTION FOR FARMERS IN GHANA

Hon. Isaac Opoku, Member of Parliament for Offinso South, has called for stronger protection of cocoa farmers and stability in cocoa pricing policies. He made the appeal during an interview on ICAD TV’s Ghana Nti Morning Show, where he addressed challenges facing farmers and developments in the cocoa sector. According to him, cocoa farmers must be protected through stable and fair pricing, as they depend heavily on cocoa income for their livelihoods. He emphasized that cocoa purchases should remain under the control of the Cocoa Marketing Board, and that all external buyers should operate strictly through official agreements. He added that once a minimum guaranteed price is set for the season, it should remain unchanged until the end of the season to ensure fairness and stability for farmers. Hon. Opoku also raised concerns about delayed payments, price fluctuations, and policy inconsistencies affecting cocoa farmers across the country. He called for stronger government intervention, including effective buffer stock systems and properly functioning farmer service centers. He further urged unity and accountability in political discussions, warning against insults among political actors and calling for internal resolution of disputes.