A team of National Best Cocoa Farmers led by the CEO of Ghana Cocoa Board Joseph Boahen Aidoo has called on Dr. Bryan Acheampong, minister for Food and Agriculture to discuss ways of improving the cocoa industry.
The visit was to also congratulate the Minister on his appointment to the agric sector.
The spokesperson for the association, Mr. Charles Gyamfi lamented over the manner in which the Ghanaian cocoa beans are smuggled across to neighboring countries.
He indicated that the unpatriotic act has drained the efforts and hard work of cocoa farmers in Ghana to the benefit of neighboring countries.
The farmers called on the government as a matter of agency to deal with the disturbing phenomenon.
He further suggested the possibility of introducing a receipt system for issuance to farmers who sell produce to Producer Buying Companies.
He explained that, the receipt system they believe will serve as evidence of quantities purchased from farmers adding that government can also develop other strategies to bring the situation under control.
Another challenge brought to the attention of the Minister was galamsey activities in cocoa growing areas.
The farmers described the situation as worrying particularly in instances where cocoa trees are cut down for mining activities leading to the destruction of farms lands.
Responding to the farmers’ concerns, Dr. Bryan Acheampong expressed gratitude to the farmers for the honor and commended them for their efforts over the years ensuring that Ghana is placed on the world map when it comes to cocoa production.
Cocoa he indicated has been the major source of foreign exchange for the country and as such the country owes gratitude to cocoa farmers.
The Minister assured the farmers that immediate action is being taken to curb the smuggling of cocoa to neighboring countries.
He also lauded the suggestion of using the receipt system as a measure to mitigate the issue.
The Minister further urged the cocoa farmers to continue their hard work as the nation depends on their labour to develop. Dr. Bryan Acheampong finally assured the farmers of an open-door administration and called on the farmers not to hesitate to knock at his door.