Johannesburg, South Africa – A group of Ghanaian cocoa farmers has filed a formal complaint with the country’s Cocoa Board (Cocobod), demanding a “living income” and addressing concerns over environmental and social issues. The complaint, signed by 30 farmers, highlights the ongoing challenges faced by cocoa producers in Ghana, the world’s second-largest cocoa producer.
Key issues raised in the complaint include deforestation, child labor, and the overuse of harmful pesticides. The farmers argue that these practices not only harm the environment but also undermine the livelihoods of cocoa farmers and their communities.
The complaint is being viewed as a test case for Cocobod’s grievance mechanism, which was established as a condition for a $600 million loan from the African Development Bank (AfDB) in 2019. The AfDB had intended this mechanism to address precisely the kind of environmental and social issues outlined in the farmers’ complaint.
While global cocoa prices have surged due to supply shortages in West Africa, the farmers contend that these price increases have not translated into significant benefits for them. They are calling for a higher farmer price to ensure a living income and to eradicate child labor.
Additionally, the farmers demand stricter enforcement of deforestation commitments, increased transparency in supply chains, and a ban on dangerous pesticides. They emphasize the need for sustainable farming practices to protect the environment and secure the long-term future of the cocoa industry in Ghana.
As the global demand for cocoa continues to grow, it is imperative for industry stakeholders to prioritize ethical and sustainable practices.
