Ghana Aims to Boost Local Processing and Farmers’ Livelihoods

Story by Fada Amakye

The Cocoa Marketing Company (CMC) is spearheading efforts to add value to Ghana’s cocoa through local processing and export, aiming to improve farmers’ livelihoods and contribute to the country’s economy.

Dr. John Barnett Quaicoo, Deputy Managing Director (Marketing) at CMC, highlighted the challenges facing cocoa farmers, including limited financial capacity and the impact of illegal mining. He emphasized the need to ensure farmers’ standards of living are elevated, saying, “How can we ensure that they try not just to survive? How can they elevate the standard of living of those who dedicate their lives to this noble crop, the cocoa tree.”

To address these challenges, CMC plans to increase local processing of cocoa beans, creating more value for farmers and the economy. The company is also adopting a 24-hour economy policy, aiming to enhance efficiency and cash flow.

“This policy fits into the government’s vision of a 24-hour economy,” Dr. Quaicoo said. “We’ll be working around the clock to benefit our stakeholders, including farmers.”

The initiative is expected to benefit farmers, buyers, and the economy. The Cocoa Media Hub will play a crucial role in disseminating information and educating stakeholders about the industry’s developments.