COFAAA Advocates Fair Pricing, Local Processing and Growth in Cocoa Sector

The Cocoa Farmers Alliance Association of Africa (COFAAA) is calling for urgent action to address persistent challenges in Ghana‘s cocoa sector, including low farmgate prices, climate change impacts, deforestation, and child labour.

While commending the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) and the World Cocoa Foundation (WCF) for their leadership and commitment to improving the livelihoods of cocoa farmers, particularly in Ghana, the Alliance  urged stakeholders in the  cocoa sector to implement stronger policies that ensure fair compensation for farmers, enhance traceability, and promote sustainable farming practices

Addressing Farmer Livelihoods and Fair Pricing

Ghanaian cocoa farmers face persistent income instability, primarily due to volatile global prices and production costs. Despite efforts by ICCO and WCF to enhance farmers’ prosperity, many cocoa producers still struggle to earn a fair living wage. COFAAA is advocating for stronger price stabilization mechanisms, direct support initiatives, and more transparent trade policies that guarantee farmers receive equitable earnings.

Strengthening Traceability and Compliance with EUDR

The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) poses both an opportunity and a challenge for Ghana’s cocoa industry. While compliance ensures greater market access, many smallholder farmers lack the resources and technical knowledge to meet stringent requirements. COFAAA is calling for increased government and industry support to facilitate traceability, educate farmers on regulatory compliance, and invest in digital tracking systems to ensure Ghana remains a competitive cocoa exporter.

Tackling Child Labour and Human Rights Concerns

The cocoa sector continues to grapple with human rights issues, particularly the prevalence of child labor. Despite advocacy efforts by WCF and ICCO, enforcement remains a challenge. COFAAA is urging stronger collaboration between government agencies, industry players, and local communities to provide alternative income sources for families, improve access to education, and ensure child protection policies are effectively implemented across cocoa-growing regions.

Encouraging Sustainable Farming Practices and Agroforestry

Deforestation and climate change threaten the sustainability of Ghana’s cocoa industry. Agroforestry initiatives promoted by ICCO and WCF have had a positive impact, but COFAAA believes more needs to be done. The organization is advocating for greater investment in climate-smart agriculture, improved access to shade trees, and incentives for farmers who adopt environmentally friendly cultivation methods.

Promoting Value Addition and Local Processing

Ghana’s cocoa industry remains largely dependent on raw bean exports, limiting the country’s potential for revenue growth. COFAAA is urging increased investment in local cocoa processing and value addition to create jobs, boost the economy, and ensure Ghana benefits more significantly from its cocoa production. By supporting local chocolate manufacturing and expanding cocoa-based industries, Ghana can maximize its earnings from the global cocoa market.

COFAAA reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside ICCO and WCF to build a sustainable and prosperous cocoa industry. The association called on government, industry players, and international organizations to take decisive action in addressing the critical challenges to guarantee a resilient future for Ghana’s cocoa sector and the farmers who depend on it.

Last Updated on February 12, 2025 by samboad