President Mahama Proposes New Laws to Protect Cocoa Farms from Mining

Ghana’s Cocoa Industry at Risk: Mahama Takes Action

President John Mahama has announced plans to introduce strict new laws banning the destruction of cocoa farms for mining activities, declaring 2025 as the “Year of Correction” for Ghana’s struggling cocoa sector.

Speaking at a meeting with the Ghana Cocoa, Coffee, and Sheanut Farmers Association, Mahama emphasized the long-term economic value of cocoa farming over the short-term gains of illegal mining (galamsey), which often leaves land infertile.

Key Highlights from Mahama’s Address

1. New Legislation to Protect Cocoa Farms

Mahama revealed that his administration is exploring legal measures to prevent cocoa farms from being replaced by mining operations.

“Cocoa farming sustains generations, while mining offers temporary benefits but destroys the land forever,” he stated.

🔗 Related: Ghana’s Fight Against Illegal Mining (Galamsey)

2. COCOBOD’s Financial Crisis & Mismanagement

The President criticized the previous government’s handling of COCOBOD, citing:

• GH₵3.4 billion was spent in 2024, mostly on administrative costs instead of farmer support.
• A staggering GH₵3.2 billion debt, with GH₵9 million due by September 2025.
• Increased hiring despite declining cocoa production—a move he called “bad business sense.”

3. Fair Pricing for Cocoa Farmers

Mahama pledged to ensure farmers receive at least 70% of cocoa earnings, condemning past policies that paid less than 40%.

“Farmers deserve fair compensation. The past four years failed them, but 2025 will bring change,” he vowed.

Why This Matters for Ghana’s Economy

Cocoa is Ghana’s second-largest export, contributing $2 billion annually.
illegal mining threatens food security & farmlands.
Reforming COCOBOD could revive farmer livelihoods.

What’s Next for Ghana’s Cocoa Sector?

With 2025 dubbed the “Year of Correction,” Mahama’s proposed reforms could:
Strengthen legal protections for cocoa farms
Reduce COCOBOD’s wasteful spending
Improve farmer incomes & sector sustainability

📢 “Do you support banning mining on cocoa farms? Share your thoughts in the comments!”

🔗 For more updates, follow the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) & Ghana News Agency.