Let’s support campaign against cocoa smuggling – Chief Farmer
The National President of the Ghana Cocoa, Coffee and Shea-nut Farmers Association (GCCSFA), Alhaji Alhassan Bukari, has rallied farmers to join in the fight to rein in cocoa smuggling.
They should give every necessary support to the security agencies to track down and bring to justice those whose activities are denying the nation of revenue.
Alhaji Bukari was addressing a day’s joint forum organized for farmers in the Central and Western Regions at Dunkwa-On-Offin to draw attention to the harmful effects of cocoa smuggling on the national economy.
In attendance were district and society chief farmers from the various communities.
He called on especially farmers along the country’s borders to have the courage to expose those engaged in the practice of illegally carrying cocoa across into neighbouring countries.
They should also have the inner strength to resist the temptation of getting involved in the illegal business.
Alhaji Bukari spoke of the need for them to adopt improved farming techniques to help raise production levels and returns.
He announced that GCCSFA has taken delivery of 170,000 solar torch-lights for distribution to its members nationwide.
These were supplied by the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) as part of an incentive package for the farmers.
Some selected communities that are yet to be hooked to the national electricity grid are also been provided with solar panels by the Board.
He appealed to the government to step up efforts at improving feeder roads in cocoa growing areas and build more schools.
Nana Tanoh Boadi, Western-South Regional Chief Farmer, expressed worry about illegal mining activities in cocoa growing areas which were degrading the forest and adversely affecting cocoa production.
Mr. Daniel Essien, Western-South Regional Quality Control Manager of COCOBOD, advised the farmers to use approved chemicals at all times and to adhere to standard practices in terms of fermentation and storage of cocoa beans.
Source: GNA