Cocoa has, for decades, been the backbone of Ghana’s economy, supporting livelihoods, earning foreign exchange, and placing the country among the world’s leading producers.
In recent years, however, cocoa production has recorded a steady decline, largely due to the impact of climate change and the destructive activities of illegal mining popularly referred to as galamsey.
Despite the crop’s profitability, some cocoa farmers, particularly the youth, are abandoning cocoa farming in search of alternative livelihoods.
Cocoa beans
So, what does the future hold for Ghana’s cocoa sector?
Ibrahim Abubakar traveled to Yawhenekrom in the Ashanti Region to meet one of the nation’s top producers and filed this report.
Edward Kwame Yeboah is the 2025 National Best Cocoa Farmer.
His journey in cocoa farming began in 2002 with just half an acre of land.
Today, through dedication, discipline and strategic farm management, the 46-year-old owns over 100 hectares of cocoa farm here at Yawhenekrom.
At peak production, Mr Yeboah harvests close to 8,000 bags of cocoa beans annually.
“Cocoa farming is a good business. Though the work is tedious, it is profitable when you manage the farm well. I get more than enough to cater for the family when I harvest”.
But success stories like his are increasingly under threat from illegal mining activities.
“Most of the youth are now into illegal mining so getting labour to support you in the farm has become a challenge”, Mr Yeboah stated.
The Mankranso District Cocoa Officer, Christian Yeboah Boateng, explains that while some farmers willingly lease their cocoa farms to illegal miners, others lose their lands through forceful encroachment.
“We are really fighting a losing battle in this district on the issue of galamsey. It is important for all stakeholders to get involved in being the menace to an end of we want to save our cocoa”, he pleaded.
Edward Yeboah believes it is a costly mistake for farmers to hand over their cocoa farms to miners, warning that the long-term consequences far outweigh any short-term financial gains.
He indicated that “cocoa tree can stand between 40 to 50 years and produce significant yield when managed well”.
Whilst calling on the youth to see cocoa farming as a business with long-term benefits, rather than a last resort, the best cocoa farmer also urged the government to incentivize cocoa farming.
“With the change in climate, government can support with micro irrigation facilities to enhance production”.
As Ghana strives to maintain its position in the global cocoa market, stakeholders believe renewed commitment to protecting farmlands, supporting farmers, and attracting the youth will be crucial to reviving cocoa production. 3news.com
