Ghana’s cocoa regulator plans to distribute thousands of spraying machines and protective gear to cocoa farmers as part of efforts to support production despite ongoing challenges in the sector.

The Board Chairman of Ghana Cocoa Board, Dr. Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, said the agency has procured about 27,000 motorised spraying machines and 89,000 sets of personal protective equipment (PPE) for farmers nationwide.

Speaking Thursday during an engagement with cocoa farmers from the Abuakwa North District and Fanteakwa South District in Ghana’s Eastern Region of Ghana, Dr. Ofosu Ampofo said the measures form part of the regulator’s continued support for farmers amid pressures facing the industry.

“Despite the challenges we face, all the interventions we are putting in place to assist cocoa farmers will continue,” he said, adding that the board would also maintain the supply of free fertilizer and insecticides.

The distribution of spraying equipment and protective gear is intended to strengthen pest and disease control efforts in cocoa-growing communities, a key factor in sustaining yields in the world’s second-largest cocoa producer.

Dr. Ofosu Ampofo also outlined plans to restructure scholarship support traditionally provided to cocoa farmers’ children. Under the proposal, assistance that previously covered earlier levels of education would be redirected toward tertiary education, reflecting the government’s implementation of the Free Senior High School policy in Ghana.

A committee has been set up to develop the framework for the initiative, with further details expected to be announced in the coming months, he said.

Source:TheDotNews