Abuakwa North farmers get union

The Abuakwa North Municipal Co-operative Cocoa Farmers and Marketing Union Ltd. officially inaugurated its union at various societal levels to the municipal level on October 19, 2024, in Akyem Tafo, located in the Eastern Region of Ghana.

During the inauguration, the union president, Mr. Enoch Osei, emphasized the importance of unity among cocoa farmers. He stated, “All the cocoa farmers need to unite so that they can work together.” Mr. Osei noted that while other groups, such as drivers and teachers, have their unions, cocoa farmers have not had a unified association. He expressed the need for a union to bring all farmers together to work as a cohesive team.

He further explained that the union was formed by uniting various societies within Abuakwa North. “They are from different societies, and all the societies in Abuakwa North have come together to form a single union,” he said.

Mr. Osei also shared that there were previously nine separate co-operative cocoa unions in the constituency, each operating independently. However, these unions have now merged into one. He added, “Our vision is to expand to the regional and national levels. Very soon, we will be selecting executives at the national level. The aim is to come together, work hard, and protect our cocoa, while also supporting the farmers.”

One of the challenges the union faces, according to Mr. Osei, is the difficulty some farmers have in paying their monthly dues. “It is very difficult for some cocoa farmers to pay their dues, especially during the off-season when there is little money. A union cannot function without the payment of dues,” he explained.

He also highlighted the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that assist in education and appealed to the government and the Cocoa Board for support. “We are calling on the government and the Cocoa Board to assist us,” he said.

Mr. Osei further pointed out that the timely availability of fertilizers and chemicals is a major issue. “Sometimes fertilizers and chemicals arrive late. If the government and the Cocoa Board could set up chemical shops, farmers who have the money could purchase these inputs even if the government supply is delayed,” he suggested. Additionally, he noted that the banking system is not supportive of cocoa farmers’ activities. “We need the banks to provide loans with lower interest rates to help farmers expand their farms,” he added.

In conclusion, Mr. Osei noted the positive impact of cocoa farming in the region, saying that the success of cocoa farming has helped reduce illegal mining (galamsey). He concluded, “If we get support, the youth will be encouraged to become cocoa farmers.”

The inauguration marked an important milestone in the efforts to unite and strengthen the cocoa farming community in Abuakwa North.

Source: Radiooneghana.com/ Osor Dynamic