Cocoa farmers have been encouraged to remain calm and continue collaborating with the government as efforts are made to address the ongoing challenges in the cocoa sector.

Emmanuel Agyei, Deputy Ashanti Regional Manager of COCOBOD in charge of Operations, gave the assurance while addressing farmers at a rally organised by the Nkawie District of the Cocoa Health and Extension Division (CHED) for farmers within the Atwima enclave at Nkawie. He commended cocoa farmers for their cooperation with the government and other key stakeholders in tackling difficulties confronting the sector.

Mr Agyei disclosed that indications from COCOBOD management suggest that payments for cocoa beans purchased in 2025 would be made soon. He therefore urged farmers to remain patient as steps are being taken to settle the arrears.

He also advised farmers against selling government-supplied fertilisers to foreigners, stressing that the inputs should rather be applied on their farms to boost productivity and improve yields.

The rally aimed to update farmers on unresolved issues in the cocoa sector and educate them on proper agronomic practices to enhance production.

Farmer cooperative chairpersons, chief farmers and other farmer group leaders from Atwima Nwabiagya North and South, Atwima Mponua, and Kwanwoma political districts attended the programme. Participants were taken through best practices in pruning, fertiliser application, and appropriate spraying methods.

Nii Koi Kotey, Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipal Cocoa Officer, urged farmers to adhere to the guidance provided by CHED officials to increase their output. He assured them that officers would embark on field visits to monitor and support farmers during an upcoming pruning exercise to ensure its success.

Nana Achiaa Nantie, an executive member of the Ghana National Cocoa Farmers Association, also appealed to farmers to refrain from releasing their cocoa farms to illegal miners, warning that such activities undermine the sustainability of cocoa production.