The Young Cocoa Farmers Association has called on Ghana's Parliament to pressure the government and the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) to announce a definite opening date, producer price, and financing arrangements for the 2026/27 cocoa season. Convener Martin Adu stated that cocoa farmers are uncertain about when they can sell their produce, despite the season approaching. As of September 22, 2026, no clear signal or information has been received from COCOBOD.
Adu expressed concerns that some farmers have already stored dried cocoa beans at home, which may lose quality if kept for too long. He urged Parliament to intervene within one week to address the issues. The association also wants the government to announce the producer price for the new season and explain how it will be determined under the proposed mechanism guaranteeing farmers at least 70% of the achieved free-on-board (FOB) price.
The current producer price of GH¢2,587 per bag is hoped to be maintained or increased. Adu stated that farmers would accept the current price if payments could be made consistently throughout the season. The association is seeking a guaranteed market where farmers can be confident that buyers will have money available throughout the season, regardless of changes in global market conditions.
Adu cited cases of licensed buying companies lacking sufficient funds, with one purchasing clerk being asked to collect money to buy cocoa but then instructed to stop. He emphasized that COCOBOD has not provided clear information on financing arrangements. The association has contacted both the majority and minority leadership in Parliament and is awaiting a response.
The Young Cocoa Farmers Association has over 7,000 members nationwide. Adu stated that young cocoa farmers have not been sufficiently involved in discussions surrounding proposed reforms to cocoa financing, pricing, and COCOBOD's structure. The association wants education on the proposed 70% FOB-based pricing formula, as many ordinary cocoa farmers do not understand how the calculation translates into the price they receive at the farm gate.
The two key assurances farmers want before the new purchasing season are sufficient funds to buy cocoa throughout the season and a fair producer price. Adu emphasized that the association is seeking a guaranteed market for cocoa farmers. The association's demands aim to prevent a repeat of payment difficulties experienced last season.
The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) announced the opening of the previous cocoa season in July, but farmers have yet to receive similar clarity for the 2026/27 season. The Young Cocoa Farmers Association's concerns highlight the need for timely and transparent communication from COCOBOD and the government to ensure a smooth cocoa season.
Key points
- The Young Cocoa Farmers Association is urging Parliament to pressure COCOBOD and the government for financing assurances.
- Cocoa farmers are uncertain about the 2026/27 season's opening date, producer price, and financing arrangements.
- The association seeks a guaranteed market for cocoa farmers to ensure consistent payments throughout the season.
