Finance Minister-designate Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has assured cocoa farmers that while he does not have the authority to set cocoa prices, he will advocate for fair pricing to ensure their welfare.During his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee, Forson emphasized his long-standing commitment to improving the livelihoods of cocoa farmers. "I am the biggest advocate for cocoa farmers.

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I have done that in the last 8 years, and I have fought for the cocoa farmer year in, year out. I will work to improve the lot of the cocoa farmer, recognising their contribution to the economy," he stated.Acknowledging challenges in the cocoa sector, he warned that the industry is in decline and requires urgent intervention. "The sector is collapsing and dwindling at a very fast rate.

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We need to do something, including the farm gate price and revamping the sector," he stressed.Clarifying his mandate, Forson pointed out that cocoa pricing falls outside the jurisdiction of the Finance Ministry. "The Ghana Cocoa Board is under the Ministry of Agriculture. It is not under the Ministry of Finance.

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I don't have the sole power, prerogative to announce cocoa price today, but as a minister, I'll be the champion for cocoa farmers and I'll make sure they get the fair price," he assured.His remarks come after then-President Nana Akufo-Addo increased the producer price of cocoa from GH₵3,000 to GH₵3,100 per 64kg bag for the 2024/2025 crop season. This 3.

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3% increment, announced ahead of the season, raised the price to GH₵49,600 per tonne, aiming to better reflect market conditions and offer enhanced support to cocoa producers.

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