Ghanaian farmer reveals why he smuggles his cocoa to Togo
A cocoa farmer from Ghana’s Oti Region has revealed that he smuggles his cocoa to neighboring Togo to take advantage of the significantly higher prices offered there, stirring conversation about the challenges facing local farmers.
In a video shared on social media, the farmer explained that while a bag of cocoa fetches only GHS 3,000 in Ghana, it can be sold for as much as GHS 8,000 in Togo, nearly triple the price.
This stark difference in profit has led him, like many others, to cross the border in search of better earnings.
Despite the allure of the higher profits in Togo, the farmer expressed frustration with Ghana’s pricing system, pointing out that it offers little incentive for cocoa farmers to stay loyal to the local market.
The disparity in prices, he said, forces many farmers to consider options outside the country, even though they would prefer to sell their produce at home.
In addition to discussing the price gap, the farmer took a strong stand against illegal mining, or galamsey, declaring that he would never use his land for such activities.
While illegal mining has enticed many with the promise of quick profits, he believes cocoa farming, despite the lower local prices, is a more stable and environmentally sustainable source of income.
He stressed that galamsey’s environmental destruction, including the pollution of water bodies and the degradation of farmlands, is too steep a price to pay for short-term financial gain.
His story highlights the growing issue of cocoa farmers seeking better opportunities outside Ghana due to the country’s pricing policies, as well as the need for reforms that will make the local market more competitive.
At the same time, the farmer’s commitment to sustainable cocoa farming over illegal mining reflects a deeper concern for the preservation of the environment and long-term economic stability.
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Source: NewsandVibes.com
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