Ghana’s Cocoa Farmers Demand Action on Climate Change Amid Industry Crisis

The cocoa industry in Ghana is in crisis due to climate change, pest outbreaks, and rising costs. With significant declines in yields leading to increased global prices, farmers face severe challenges. Various stakeholders emphasize the need for sustainable farming practices and governmental support as the country approaches its presidential election, where candidates’ commitments to the cocoa sector are under scrutiny.

The cocoa industry in Ghana, the world’s second-largest producer, faces significant challenges exacerbated by climate change, pest infestations, and economic pressures. Farmers like Kate Buadu have witnessed declining yields due to evolving weather patterns and diseases affecting cocoa trees. As global cocoa prices surge, driven by diminishing supply from Ghana and Ivory Coast, chocolate manufacturers grapple with increasing costs and supply chain disruptions. Farmers, particularly women, struggle to access necessary resources for sustainable farming practices. To combat these challenges, organizations advocate for climate-resilient strategies while political candidates propose initiatives to support cocoa producers in the upcoming election. Consequently, the crisis underscores the urgent need for holistic and environmentally considerate approaches to sustain Ghana’s cocoa sector.

Ghana’s cocoa industry is crucial to its economy, providing employment to over a million farmers and contributing significantly to the GDP. However, erratic weather due to climate change, along with pest infestations like black pod and swollen shoot disease, has led to poor harvests over the past few years. This situation has resulted in a sharp decline in cocoa yields, affecting livelihoods and the broader chocolate market. As farmers endure increasing costs while transitioning to sustainable practices, political responses are being scrutinized ahead of the presidential election.

In conclusion, the cocoa crisis in Ghana reflects a complex interplay of climatic, economic, and agricultural challenges threatening both farmers’ livelihoods and the global chocolate supply chain. With stakeholders advocating for sustainable practices and increased political commitment to support cocoa farmers, the industry stands at a critical juncture. The urgent need for effective and coordinated action is evident to ensure the future viability of this vital sector amid changing environmental conditions and market dynamics.

Original Source: theworld.org