Cocoa farmers have been urged to exercise restraint and continue cooperating with the government to find sustainable solutions to challenges facing the cocoa sector.
Mr Emmanuel Agyei, Deputy Ashanti Regional Manager of COCOBOD in charge of Operations, commended farmers for their collaboration with government and stakeholders in addressing sector issues.
Speaking at a rally organised by the Nkawie District Cocoa Health and Extension Division (CHED) for farmers in the Atwima enclave, Mr Agyei said management signals indicate that payments for cocoa beans purchased in 2025 would soon be disbursed.
He also advised farmers to use the fertilizers provided by the government on their farms rather than selling them to outsiders, stressing that proper application would improve productivity.
The rally aimed to update farmers on pending cocoa sector issues and provide training on improved farming practices, including pruning, fertilizer application, and spraying methods.
Cooperative leaders, chief farmers, and other farmer group representatives from Atwima Nwabiagya North and South, Atwima Mponua, and Kwanwoma districts attended the session, receiving guidance on best agricultural practices.
Nii Koi Kotey, Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipal Cocoa Officer, encouraged farmers to implement CHED teachings to boost yields and pledged to inspect operations during an upcoming pruning exercise to ensure effectiveness.
Nana Achiaa Nantie, executive member of the Ghana National Cocoa Farmers Association, also appealed to farmers to stop allowing illegal miners access to their farms.
