SEHWI ATRONSU, Western North Region – April 2025 — Cocoa farmers in the Bibiani Anhwiaso Bekwai Municipality are appealing to the Chief Executive Officer of COCOBOD, Dr. Randy Abbey, to intervene urgently as they face what they call a forceful takeover of their cocoa farms by the Ghana Bauxite Company.
The farmers, mainly in Sehwi Atronsu and surrounding communities, allege that the company is clearing large swathes of productive cocoa land to pave way for the construction of a bauxite refinery, threatening their livelihoods and years of agricultural investment.
During Dr. Abbey’s maiden working visit to the Western North Region, a distressed cocoa farmer, Andrew Asare, spoke out:
“We rely solely on cocoa to survive. If these farms are cleared, we will lose everything,” he said emotionally.
Several farmers echoed his sentiments, stressing that cocoa farming remains their only source of income, and they fear displacement and poverty if their farmlands are destroyed.
COCOBOD Promises Action
Responding to the concerns, Dr. Randy Abbey assured the farmers that COCOBOD would not turn a blind eye to their plight. He promised to engage with relevant stakeholders, including government agencies and the Ghana Bauxite Company, to find a peaceful and fair resolution.
“We will not abandon you. COCOBOD stands with our farmers, and we will work to protect your interests,” Dr. Abbey stated.
He also urged the farmers to remain calm and cooperative as COCOBOD takes the necessary steps to address the issue.
The incident underscores the growing tension between agriculture and industrial expansion in Ghana, particularly as cocoa farming faces mounting threats from illegal mining and infrastructure projects.
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