Ghanaian cocoa farmers are intensifying calls for the government to guarantee at least 70% of the Free-On-Board (FOB) price of cocoa as payment to producers. They argue that anything less continues to undervalue their role in the global cocoa supply chain and undermines rural livelihoods.

The renewed push comes after President John Dramani Mahama, during a Thank You tour in the Ahafo Region on Saturday, pledged to announce a significantly improved cocoa producer price in August 2025.

In an interview with Citi Business News, Stephenson Anane Boateng, President of the Ghana National Cocoa Farmers Association, welcomed the President’s assurance but expressed skepticism based on past experiences.

“Cocoa farmers are also Ghanaians, and the work we do impacts the national economy. The constitution makes it clear—farmers should receive 70% of the FOB price. So why do successive governments keep offering less?” he asked.

Ghana, the world’s second-largest cocoa producer, depends heavily on the sector for foreign exchange, rural employment, and national revenue. The price farmers receive has significant implications for farm investment, youth retention, and poverty reduction in cocoa-growing communities.

Boateng also criticized government plans to promote large-scale commercial cocoa farms, warning that such moves could marginalize smallholder farmers if not aligned with a clear, inclusive policy framework.

“What is the essence of pushing for commercial cocoa farming when past state farms collapsed? We should focus on empowering existing farmers with better prices and support,” he argued.

In November 2024, the previous NPP administration increased the producer price of cocoa from GH₵48,000 to GH₵49,600 per tonne, raising the price per 64kg bag from GH₵3,000 to GH₵3,100. While appreciated, farmers say this still falls short of the constitutionally mandated 70% share of the FOB price.

All eyes are now on August 2025, when the new price will be announced. Cocoa farmers and stakeholders are urging the government to uphold transparency, fairness, and long-term sector sustainability in the pricing process.