A cocoa farmer at Pankese in the Eastern Region has appealed to the government to settle outstanding payments owed to cocoa farmers, expressing frustration over the recent reduction in producer prices.

Speaking during a visit by the Minority Caucus to cocoa farmers on March 3, 2026, the visibly emotional farmer said she believes the lawmakers’ visit was divinely orchestrated in response to her struggles.

“I want to thank the MPs who came. I am a widow, and I know God brought you here because of my plight. My late husband and I were cocoa farmers, and that is what has been feeding me,” she said.

Cocoa Farmers Association calls for dialogue with Finance Minister

She further appealed to President Mahama, warning of possible protest if her concerns are not addressed.

“I want to appeal to President Mahama to pay us for the cocoa pods we supplied. If he doesn’t, all my cries will turn into curses on the government. Just like officials want their children to succeed, we also have the same desire. If they don’t heed our cries, we will march to his house to register our protest,” the farmer warned.

The price cut was announced by Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson on February 12, 2026, following a decision by the government and the Producer Price Review Committee (PPRC) to align farmgate prices with international market conditions amid a sharp fall in global cocoa prices.

The adjustment sets the producer price at GH¢41,392 per tonne, equivalent to GH¢2,587 per bag for the remainder of the 2025/2026 crop season, representing a 28 percent reduction from the previous rate.

Government said the move is aimed at restoring liquidity in the cocoa sector and ensuring timely payments to farmers, many of whom have experienced delays due to unsold stocks and financial pressures at the Ghana Cocoa Board.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) disclosed that it has paid a total of GH¢1.09 billion to cocoa farmers. The payment was made to Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs) in two tranches as part of efforts to clear outstanding arrears.

Watch the video below:

LIVE | “We will storm his house if he fails to restore the cocoa producer price,” — Cocoa farmer at Pankese declares during an engagement with the Minority Caucus, warning of possible action against John Dramani Mahama. pic.twitter.com/tFG96pqLKk

— The1957News (@The1957News) March 3, 2026