Delayed cocoa payments push us into financial strain- cocoa farmers to government

Young cocoa farmers in Ghana say they are facing increasing financial pressure as delays in payments for cocoa beans they supplied months ago continue, with many struggling to support their families as the lean season approaches.

According to the Young Cocoa Farmers Association, several farmers are yet to receive payment for cocoa beans they sold more than four months ago, despite earlier assurances from government officials that funds had been released to Licensed Buying Companies (LBCs) to facilitate payments.

The association described the situation as discouraging, noting that cocoa farming requires significant labour, dedication and financial investment, making the prolonged delay in payments particularly difficult for farmers.

In a statement issued on March 12, 2026, the group accused some government officials of engaging in what it termed “cocoa politics,” while farmers continue to wait for the money owed to them.

The farmers also addressed the recent reduction in cocoa prices, stating that although they were unhappy with the decision, they reluctantly accepted it because they had no alternative.

“Young cocoa farmers are becoming increasingly frustrated by the ongoing statements and discussions from government officials regarding the recent cocoa price reduction and claims that funds have been released for farmer payments.

Although we have reluctantly accepted the new price, it does not mean we are satisfied. We simply accepted it because we had no other option,” the statement said.

The association is therefore calling on the government to release the funds owed to farmers to help ease the financial strain many of them are currently facing.