Cocoa farmers in the Western North Region have taken to the streets to express their anger over a reduction in the producer price of cocoa, warning that the development is threatening their livelihoods.
The protest, organized by the Forum for Accountability of Sefwi Cocoa Farmers, saw demonstrators march through the main streets of Sefwi-Wiawso carrying placards with inscriptions such as “Save the Cocoa Farmer” and “Our Labour Deserves Better Pay,” among others.
The farmers say the producer price has been slashed from GH¢3,600 to GH¢2,587, even as the cost of farm inputs, transportation, and general living expenses continues to rise. They argue the new price has made cocoa farming largely unprofitable and are calling on the government to urgently step in and reverse the decision.
Some of the demonstrators cautioned that continued inaction could push farmers to abandon their farms, a development they warned would have serious consequences for overall cocoa production in the country.
However, the protest has not received unanimous support within the farming community. While some farmers acknowledge the hardship caused by the price reduction, they have opted against street demonstrations, arguing that engaging government authorities through dialogue would yield better results.
Others have echoed calls for calm, urging the government to introduce cushioning measures such as subsidies on farm inputs to help offset the impact of the reduced price.
The demonstration was largely peaceful but briefly disrupted traffic flow in parts of the municipality. Security personnel were on the ground to maintain order throughout the exercise.
The farmers say they remain committed to pursuing the matter with relevant authorities until their grievances are adequately addressed.