Cocoa farmers in Ghana, the world’s second-largest cocoa producer, are facing severe challenges due to climate change, pests, and diseases, leading to significantly reduced yields and soaring cocoa prices. With agriculture being a key sector of the economy, the impact of declining production is felt across local businesses and consumers. As the presidential election approaches, farmers seek commitments from candidates to tackle these climate-related issues and support resilience in cocoa farming.
In Oyoko, Ghana, 75-year-old cocoa farmer Kate Buadu illustrates the challenges faced by local farmers amid climate change, as she points to diseased cocoa pods ravaged by mold. Ghana, a key player in the global cocoa market, accounts for more than 10% of the national GDP and employs over a million farmers. However, following three years of poor harvests, production has plummeted to less than 430,000 tons, causing cocoa prices to soar and straining consumers. The cocoa tree, which flourishes in humid tropical climates, is increasingly threatened by unstable weather patterns leading to rising pest and disease resistance. With climate change exacerbating frustrations, cocoa farmers like Akua Donkor and Kwarteng express concern over declining yields, as production costs rise due to the depreciating Ghanaian cedi and the disruption of fertilizer exports from Ukraine. In response, organizations like Fairafric are championing sustainable practices among cooperatives to combat these challenges, while economists emphasize the importance of policy support for climate adaptation. As Ghana approaches its presidential election, farmers eagerly anticipate candidates’ commitments to climate resilience measures, with hopes that a more significant government intervention could reverse current trends.
Contemporary disruptions and heightened challenges necessitate immediate action for cocoa farmers in Ghana to ensure the sustainability of an industry pivotal to the country’s economy and workforce.
Ghana, the world’s second-largest cocoa producer, plays a vital role in the global chocolate supply chain, collaborating with Ivory Coast to provide over 60% of the world’s cocoa. Cocoa farming is a significant contributor to Ghana’s economy, employing more than a million farmers and contributing substantially to the nation’s GDP. However, recent years have seen a decline in cocoa production and a surge in prices, compelling a critical examination of factors including climate change, pest management, and governmental support systems. The adverse effects of erratic weather patterns and rising production costs threaten not only the livelihoods of farmers but also the sustainability of the cocoa industry itself, necessitating immediate attention from policymakers, businesses, and agricultural stakeholders.
In conclusion, the challenges faced by Ghana’s cocoa farmers, amplified by climate change, economic pressures, and a decline in sustainable farming practices, necessitate urgent intervention. The upcoming presidential election serves as an opportunity for prospective leaders to articulate concrete strategies for supporting these farmers and enhancing the resilience of the cocoa sector. As cocoa remains a cornerstone of Ghana’s economy, it is imperative that both private sector initiatives and government policies prioritize the long-term health of this essential industry. Innovative approaches to sustainable farming and resource management are crucial to support farmers and ensure the viability of cocoa production in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.
Original Source: theworld.org
