The Second Deputy Minority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for Weija-Gbawe, has raised alarm over the deteriorating conditions of cocoa farmers, urging government to honour its commitments and provide urgent relief to the sector.
“I am a beneficiary of the COCOBOD scholarship, so I know the role cocoa farmers have played in running this economy,” he said, as he underscored the importance of the cocoa sector to Ghana’s development.
Speaking in an interview on Bullet Tv with Bright Nana Amfoh on Thursday April 23rd,2026, the MP stressed that cocoa farmers have historically been the backbone of the economy, contributing significantly to national revenue and social development.
He argued that their sacrifices should not be overlooked, especially at a time when many are facing severe financial distress.
“Your word is your weapon. You gave the people your word, so no matter what, irrespective of the situation, you must honour it,” he stated, in reference to promises made by President John Dramani Mahama to improve conditions for cocoa farmers.
According to him, expectations were high among farmers who believed the government would deliver a producer price of GH₵6,000. However, he noted that the failure to meet this expectation has worsened hardship in cocoa-growing communities.
Ahmed cited findings from a recent visit by Frank Annoh-Dompreh and his team, describing the situation on the ground as deeply troubling.
“The kind of revelations were terrifying. Cocoa farmers are losing their lives, losing their families. Their children cannot go to school, and they cannot pay medical bills,” he said.
He added that some farmers, overwhelmed by economic pressure, are resorting to selling their lands for illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey.
“They were even promised boreholes and water hoses to support irrigation on their farms, yet today they are suffering,” he noted.
Referencing past trends, Ahmed observed that cocoa prices had already declined significantly during the tenure of former President Nana Akufo-Addo, but farmers remained hopeful that conditions would improve under the current administration.
He questioned why cocoa farmers are being “punished” despite assurances to restore hope in the sector.
Ahmed called on government, particularly the Ghana Cocoa Board, to take swift and decisive action to support farmers, warning that continued neglect could deepen poverty and accelerate the shift toward illegal mining in cocoa-growing areas.
CREDIT: Mavis Fantevi
