Ashanti cocoa farmers welcome new COCOBOD Bill, back key reforms

Cocoa farmers in the Ashanti Region of Ghana have welcomed the passage of the Ghana Cocoa Board Bill, 2026, supporting key reforms that aim to protect farmers' interests and ensure the industry's long-term sustainability. During a stakeholder sensitization rally in Konongo, over 400 participants, including farmers from Juaben, Asiwa, Juaso, and Konongo, expressed their support for the legislation following its approval by Parliament.

Led by Dr. Richard Adu Acheampong and Mr. Benjamin Teye Larweh, the discussions covered the rationale behind the new law, its provisions, and benefits for farmers and the cocoa industry. The event addressed misconceptions, such as the belief that farmers would no longer be allowed to grow food crops or that COCOBOD could seize their land.

Farmers were reassured that intercropping is still encouraged, and COCOBOD's ownership of cocoa farms remains unchanged. The Municipal Chief Executive for Asante Akim North, Hon. Sarah Amoako, praised cocoa farmers for their contribution to Ghana's economy and commended COCOBOD for engaging directly with the grassroots. She urged farmers to engage local assemblies on infrastructure needs, allowing COCOBOD to focus on its core mandate.

Farmers attending the rally welcomed the reforms and called for continued discussions to ensure nationwide understanding of the new legal framework and its impact on their livelihoods.