Accra, Ghana – (African Boulevard News) – As Ghana continues to be one of the largest cocoa-producing countries in the world, it’s unfortunate that the cocoa producers who contribute to the country’s success do not earn enough to make a living. Oxfam International’s interim executive director once said, “There’s big money in chocolate — but definitely not for farmers.” This statement rings true as Ghana’s chocolate makers are steadily recording profits, while cocoa producers barely earn a living.
The world’s four largest public chocolate corporations, Mars, Mondelēz, Nestlé, and Ferrero, have together made a whopping $37 billion in net profits in 2020. On the contrary, Ghanaian cocoa farmers, who grow the cocoa that these corporations use to make their profits, only earn around $1.25 per day, which is below the $2 per day poverty line standard set by the UN.
Ghana’s cocoa industry dates back to the 19th century and continues to be the country’s largest foreign exchange earner, providing a livelihood for around 800,000 farming families. The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) is responsible for regulating and overseeing the cocoa industry, but cocoa farmers have often expressed concerns about being left out of the conversation when it comes to decision-making and receiving fair prices for their produce.
As Ghana’s cocoa production has increased over the years, the country has also seen a rise in local chocolate producers. Companies like Koa Ghana and ’57 Chocolate have gained local and international recognition. While these companies source their cocoa from Ghanaian farmers, they pay them better than the international market rate. In doing so, they maintain a sustainable relationship with their suppliers and empower local communities.
To bridge the gap between cocoa producers and chocolate makers, the Ghanaian government and the COCOBOD have launched various initiatives, including the Cocoa Management System, which aims to ensure traceability across the cocoa value chain, and the Cocoa Marketing Company’s Living Income Differential (LID), which is aimed at supporting cocoa farmers by increasing the price paid for cocoa beans.
As we enjoy our chocolate, it’s crucial to recognize the efforts of cocoa producers who make it all possible. Ghana’s cocoa industry is a significant contributor to the country’s economy, and it’s about time that cocoa farmers receive the recognition and compensation they deserve. With increased regulations and the support of local and international chocolate makers, there is hope for a brighter future for Ghana’s cocoa industry.
