The Bibiani, Anhwiaso, Bekwai Municipal Assembly (BABMA) in the Western North Region, through the Municipal Agricultural Directorate, have raised 150,000 improved cocoa seedlings, and started the free distribution to 2,000 registered cocoa farmers in the area.

Mr Alfred Amoah, Municipal Chief Executive who made this known to the GNA in Bibiani -Kwamekrom said the exercise was the Assembly’s mandatory contribution to the government’s flagship programme, Planting for Export and Rural Development (PERD).

He explained that the exercise was also to help develop modern agriculture, expand production and improve upon the living conditions of farmers and Ghanaians in general – all in pursuit of the Ghana beyond aid agenda.

The MCE also disclosed that diseased cocoa trees would be cut down by Agric Extension Officers, under the cocoa disease control programme, and farmers whose crops were affected, would receive adequate compensation.

Mr Amoah expressed appreciation to the government and the inter – ministerial committee, for the laudable initiatives, aimed at reducing poverty and improving the lots of Ghanaians.

Mr. George Ofori, the Municipal Director of Agriculture, said his outfit started nursing the cocoa seedlings in November 2018 and gave the assurance that all registered farmers would be served by the close of the exercise, which started last Wednesday.

A cross- section of beneficiaries interviewed, expressed delight at the gesture, and urged the assembly and the government to sustain it for the good of the nation.