Minority Chief Whip and MP for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has called on the Ghana Cocoa Board to publish a detailed list of purchasing clerks and Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs) reportedly paid by the government, amid mounting complaints from cocoa farmers over delayed payments.
Speaking to farmers at New Edubiase during the Minority Caucus’ tour of cocoa-growing communities in the Ashanti Region, Annoh-Dompreh questioned government claims that funds had been released to purchasing clerks following recent adjustments in cocoa producer prices.
He argued that if such payments have indeed been made, transparency requires that the beneficiaries be publicly disclosed to verify the claims and restore trust among farmers.
According to the lawmaker, many cocoa farmers say they have not been paid for their produce since October, raising doubts about official assurances. He stressed that publishing the list of paid clerks and LBCs would help establish the truth and address growing frustration within the sector.
His concerns come at a time of heightened tension following the reduction in producer prices—an issue the Minority has strongly criticised as detrimental to farmers’ livelihoods. Annoh-Dompreh further warned that any additional price cuts could deepen the hardship faced by farmers already grappling with rising production costs and delayed payments.
The Minority Caucus’ engagement forms part of a broader nationwide tour, which began earlier in the Eastern Region, aimed at gathering firsthand accounts from cocoa farmers and assessing the impact of recent policies.
During the tour, Annoh-Dompreh also alleged that the government had instructed Licensed Buying Companies to halt cocoa purchases nationwide—an action he said has left many farmers unable to sell their produce and worsened their financial difficulties.
He noted that while global cocoa price fluctuations are common, past governments have typically implemented measures to cushion farmers. He accused the current administration of failing to provide adequate support, thereby exposing farmers to avoidable economic strain.
The tour has seen the Minority delegation—comprising members from parliamentary committees on agriculture, economy, and development—interact with farmers and stakeholders across several communities. The findings, they say, will be presented in Parliament to advocate policy reforms in the cocoa sector.
Meanwhile, traditional leaders have also weighed in. During a visit to Offinso, Offinsomanhene Nana Dwamena Akenten II acknowledged the challenges confronting cocoa farmers and urged policymakers to prioritise their welfare, while cautioning against politicising the issue.
Story by: Afia Nhyira (0247220948) | Follow our social media handles @uktvghana | DM us for Ads on our website or any of our socials
