Volta, Oti cocoa farmers cry over unpaid beans

Cocoa farmers in the Volta and Oti Regions have expressed frustration to the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) over unpaid monies for cocoa beans supplied to licensed buyers since November 2025. Approximately 400 farmers stated they have not been compensated despite claims of full nationwide payments. The delay has left many struggling with school fees and basic household expenses.

Mr Emmanuel Acquah, a Best Cocoa Farmer from Akpafu-Odomi in the Oti Region, explained that they had supplied beans to the Produce Buying Company (PBC) but were not paid. The PBC then halted purchases, leading to a partnership with a private company, Atlas, to buy the cocoa. However, PBC later took over the beans, causing confusion in the payment process.

Mr Acquah expressed disappointment at claims from the Concerned Cocoa Farmers Association of Ghana that all farmers had been paid, insisting, "We are still waiting for our money." He emphasized the community's reliance on cocoa farming and the severe hardship caused by the payment delay. Discussions between COCOBOD, PBC, and Atlas reportedly led to a payment arrangement, but the farmers were surprised by the government's claim that all farmers had been paid.

Two chief cocoa farmers reportedly died after hearing the announcement, having endured lengthy financial struggles. The farmers reported the issue to the police and requested an investigation, but have not received a response. They plan to hold a peaceful demonstration and, if necessary, march to Parliament to demand payment and restore confidence in the cocoa purchasing system.