President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled a bold initiative to expand Ghana’s cocoa production by adding 200,000 hectares of cocoa farms to the country’s cultivation capacity.
Speaking on Saturday, May 31, during his nationwide Thank You Tour in the Ahafo Region, President Mahama emphasized his administration’s renewed commitment to reviving the cocoa industry, which has long been a cornerstone of Ghana’s economy.
“Plans are underway to revamp the collapsed cocoa sector. Incentives will be provided to our hardworking farmers to increase cocoa production. We aim to add 200,000 hectares of cocoa to Ghana’s output to increase the income of our farmers,” President Mahama said.
He also disclosed that the Chief Executive of COCOBOD, Randy Abbey, had assured him that a new cocoa producer price will be announced in August, promising it would be “a very good price” for farmers.
“So those of you who do not have cocoa farms, go and start looking for land and start planting cocoa,” he encouraged.
Cocoa Sector Faces Challenges
Ghana’s cocoa sector, once a global leader, has in recent years grappled with declining yields, smuggling, and pricing issues all of which have negatively impacted farmer livelihoods and national revenue.
President Mahama’s ambitious plan is viewed as a significant step toward reversing this trend. By expanding production and supporting farmers through incentives, the government hopes to restore confidence in the sector.
Economic Impact and Vision
The proposed expansion is expected to boost foreign exchange earnings, create job opportunities, and contribute to long-term economic sustainability. Cocoa remains one of Ghana’s most valuable export commodities, and strategic investments in the sector are seen as essential for national development.
President Mahama’s remarks signal a broader effort to re-energize the agricultural sector, with cocoa production at the forefront of this strategy.
