Kennedy Osei Nyarko, the Member of Parliament representing the Akim Swedru Constituency in Ghana’s Eastern Region, has highlighted the improved financial conditions for cocoa farmers under the current Akufo-Addo administration compared to the previous administration led by John Mahama. He argues that the policies implemented by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have significantly bolstered the cocoa sector, correcting what he perceives as the detrimental impact of Mahama’s governance on this vital industry. Nyarko articulates this by pointing out a dramatic increase in the purchasing power of cocoa farmers, citing that in 2016 a bag of cocoa could buy only 13 bags of cement, whereas by 2024, it could procure an impressive 30 bags. He asserts that with the commitment from Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to review the producer price for the 2024/25 cocoa season, financial prospects for farmers continue to look bright.
The MP attributes the improvements in the cocoa sector not only to the present administration but also to initiatives that were earlier established during John Kufuor’s tenure. He contends that the NDC government under Mahama did not implement any significant policies for the cocoa industry, which he believes is critical for the development of the country. Nyarko stresses that the NPP has not just maintained past initiatives but has also introduced new measures that have compounded the benefits to cocoa farmers. He acknowledges the farmers’ ongoing contributions to the nation’s development and reiterates a commitment to enhancing the operations of Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) to ensure the sector’s sustainability and growth.
Nyarko’s statements serve as a rallying cry to cocoa farmers and the general public to distance themselves from Mahama, whom he accuses of posing a threat to the industry. He paints a stark picture of the former president as disconnected from the needs of farmers, lacking the necessary economic management skills, and potentially reverting the gains made under the NPP administration. Nyarko’s warnings are framed within a broader political narrative as he appeals to farmers’ interests, urging them to exercise their voting rights judiciously in the upcoming elections to protect the strides made in the cocoa industry.
In addition to the assertions regarding policy initiatives, the MP has noted a tangible increase in the price offered to cocoa farmers, now set at GHC48,000 per ton for the new cocoa season, translating to GHC3,000 per bag for the standard 64-kilogram size. This increase represents a substantial improvement over previous years, affirming the NPP’s commitment to providing fair compensation for farmers’ hard work. Nyarko’s announcement of this price increase on social media underscores the government’s strategy of directly addressing financial incentives for cocoa farmers to encourage continued productivity and economic stability within the sector.
Moreover, the discussion around cocoa farming is not just about immediate financial metrics but also incorporates broader themes of trust and stability in governance. Nyarko positioned the upcoming elections as a pivotal moment for cocoa farmers, urging them to consider the implications of their choices on the future of their livelihoods and the cocoa industry as a whole. By emphasizing the risks associated with Mahama’s potential return to power, Nyarko seeks to create a narrative where the continuation of NPP governance is synonymous with prosperity and advancement for the cocoa sector and its stakeholders.
In conclusion, Kennedy Osei Nyarko’s statements reflect a clear narrative aimed at rallying support for the NPP while casting doubt on the capabilities of the previous administration regarding the cocoa industry. His argument pivots on highlighting tangible improvements in farmer compensation, framing these advancements against a backdrop of political accountability and foresight. Ultimately, Nyarko’s call to action for cocoa farmers is rooted in both a celebration of current achievements and a cautionary message about the potential consequences of political choices for future prosperity in agriculture.
