The General Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU) wants the government to adopt bold policies under the 24-hour economy initiative to attract more young people into cocoa processing.

The union warns that with many young people abandoning cocoa farming and the ageing farmer population gradually exiting the industry, the future of Ghana’s cocoa sector is at risk.

In the Bono Region, 30-year-old Musah Babah has given up cocoa farming, citing a lack of fertiliser, poor access to funding, and low producer prices.

“When it comes to cocoa farming, I don’t think many people will venture into it. Harvesting even five bags is a major challenge. The government must provide more support. If I had the chance to oversee the sector, I would raise cocoa prices. At the moment, I earn only about GHS 1,000 a month, which is far too little. I’m not satisfied with the current state of the industry,” he said.

Veteran farmer Stephen Billi, who has cultivated cocoa for 25 years, faces another challenge—convincing his children to continue the family’s tradition.

“None of my family members are interested in cocoa farming. Whenever I bring it up, they don’t pay much attention. Yet cocoa farming is important; it sustains livelihoods and provides reliable income,” he explained.

GAWU insists the future of cocoa lies not only in farming but in processing, where greater value and opportunities await.

General Secretary Andrews Addoquaye stressed the need for policy reforms to empower youth entrepreneurs.

“We must decide what percentage of cocoa we want to process locally and make it available to young people interested in processing. Train them. Be intentional about including them in the 24-hour economy.

“I know young cocoa farmers who are already producing their own chocolate using about seventy percent raw beans. These are healthy, innovative products. We must identify and support such people,” he said.