Cocoa farmers’ economic realities must be addressed to curb deforestation – Prof Asante

Ghana’s ongoing battle with cocoa-related deforestation, according to Prof. Winston Adams Asante, cannot be solved solely through certification, regulation, or market restrictions. To truly curb deforestation, the country must address the economic realities facing cocoa farmers. Speaking at the Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources (FRNR) Seminar Series at KNUST's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Prof. Asante urged policymakers, researchers, and sector actors to reconsider Ghana's approach to this issue.

He highlighted that the focus has been on individual farms, while overlooking the economic conditions, land-use decisions, and policy contradictions that lead to forest loss.

Cocoa is the primary income source for many farming households, with about 80% of their earnings coming from cocoa production. Most of these farmers are male, elderly, and have limited education. Their lack of alternative livelihood options makes them more susceptible to expanding cocoa farms into forest areas. Prof. Asante explained that when farmers cannot profitably sustain existing cocoa farms, they are driven to clear more land for higher yields.

He challenged the notion that loggers are the primary drivers of deforestation, as cocoa farmers often move into cleared forests. Historical data and satellite imagery show that cocoa plantations have also expanded directly into forested landscapes. Prof. Asante emphasized that remote-sensing technologies can clearly distinguish cocoa farms from forests and track land-use changes over time.

Additionally, he pointed out that illegal mining, known as galamsey, poses a growing threat to Ghana's cocoa farms, often leading to their destruction.

To effectively address deforestation, Prof. Asante called for a more comprehensive strategy that goes beyond isolated interventions. He advocated for stronger policies, improved coordination between forestry and agricultural sectors, adequately funded initiatives, and land-use planning that acknowledges the competing demands on Ghana's landscapes.