The Western North Regional Administrator of Cocobod, Samuel Osei, has urged cocoa farmers to always consult Cocoa Extension Officers and other agricultural experts before purchasing or applying pesticides.
He explained that this step helps farmers select the right products, use them effectively, and avoid potential harm to their crops and the environment.
Mr. Osei further advised farmers to make regular visits to their farms to detect diseases such as black pod (Anonom), and to undertake essential tasks like pollination to ensure proper aeration. He noted that well-managed farms often earn more than the government’s producer price due to strong global demand for cocoa.
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He also reminded farmers that Cocobod’s legal department is available to support them, free of charge, in cases of harassment by illegal miners. He encouraged farmers to resist the lure of short-term gains from galamsey, stressing that sustainable cocoa farming secures long-term income.
According to Mr. Osei, Cocobod continues to provide training and technical support through extension officers, focusing on good agricultural practices, farm rehabilitation, and the replacement of diseased or overaged cocoa trees. These interventions, he said, are designed to help farmers boost productivity and improve their livelihoods.
