The Minister of Food and Agriculture and Member of Parliament for Asunafo South, Hon. Eric Opoku, has commended the Brong and Ahafo Women Cooperative Cocoa Farming and Marketing Central Union Limited (BAWCOF) for their immense contribution to the growth and sustainability of Ghana’s cocoa industry.
He made these remarks when he addressed the 2025 Bono Ahafo Women Cocoa Farmers Union (BAWCOF) Annual Festival, held in Techiman, the Bono East Regional capital, on Tuesday. The event, which was held under the theme “Nurturing Women, Cultivating Life,” attracted a large gathering including traditional rulers, government officials, COCOBOD staff, politicians, women farmers, and other key stakeholders in the agricultural value chain.
Addressing the gathering, Hon. Eric Opoku explained Ghana’s global reputation in cocoa production and credited women farmers for maintaining the country’s high standards.
He further praised the hard work and commitment of women in cocoa farming, emphasizing their critical role in ensuring quality.
“Ghana was once the world’s leading producer of cocoa, but due to certain circumstances, we are now second only to Ivory Coast. However, when it comes to the production of high-quality cocoa beans, Ghana still leads the world. Because of this, our cocoa continues to enjoy a strong demand on the international market.
“We produce the best quality cocoa beans in the world largely due to the hard work and dedication of our women in cocoa farming. They take the time to ferment the beans for seven days and ensure they are properly dried before selling. The government is pleased with your efforts and encourages you to continue with the good work.” He said.
The Minister of Food and Agriculture also lauded the decision of women farmers to form cooperatives, describing it as a strategic move that aligns with government policy. He revealed that over 71,000 farmer cooperatives have been registered nationwide and encouraged farmers who are not part of any cooperative to join one to benefit fully from government support programs.
“I want to assure you that forming this cooperative is a step in the right direction. Not long ago, President Mahama tasked us to visit Brazil to learn best practices for running cooperatives. As a result, we have started encouraging all farmers to form or join cooperatives so they can fully benefit from government support programs. Currently, we have registered 71,000 farming cooperatives across the country.” He stated.
However, he expressed concern over the low income levels of Ghanaian farmers, attributing it to the export of raw produce without value addition.
“Farming is a very lucrative business, but unfortunately, most farmers in Ghana do not earn enough income. This is because, after harvesting our cocoa and other produce, we sell them in their raw form without adding value. That is why President John Dramani Mahama has appointed a competent person as the Minister of Trade and Agribusiness to help change this narrative.”
Source: Elvisanokyenews.com
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