Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire have partnered to champion the interests of cocoa farmers in both countries leading to the establishment of a permanent office in Accra.
This initiative aims to foster a thriving cocoa sector that will secure the income of farmers and promote sustainable development. The commissioning and official handover of the Cote d’Ivoire-Ghana Cocoa Initiative (CIGCI) secretariat building mark a significant milestone in economic cooperation between the two nations.
President Akufo-Addo, speaking at the event, emphasized the importance of this step in furthering the economic partnership between Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire. He noted that the office would be instrumental in transforming the cocoa sector and ensuring the welfare of cocoa farmers. The collaboration demonstrates the countries’ commitment to working together for the betterment of their respective cocoa industries.
Criticism Of the Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire Partnership
Some Ghanaians have slammed the President for doing very little in his fight against illegal mining popularly known as ‘Galamsey’ which has significantly wrecked the land and most cocoa farms.
Critics opine that the move may be too late as considerable damage has already been done to the lands needed for large-scale cocoa production and many cocoa farmers have been persuaded in trading their cocoa lands to illegal miners.
Vision of the Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire Partnership
The vision of CIGCI is to transform the existing cocoa sector into a thriving and sustainable industry that aligns with the shared goals of most stakeholders. This includes providing fair wages to cocoa producers, protecting forests and biodiversity, and upholding fundamental social and human rights standards. By prioritizing these objectives, Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire aim to set a global example for ethical and sustainable cocoa production.
With Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire accounting for 65% of the world’s cocoa production, the partnership is poised to create a vibrant cocoa sector that ensures stable incomes for farmers. The initiative seeks to address challenges faced by farmers and promote economic growth within the industry, ultimately benefiting the global cocoa market.
Prime Minister Robert Mambé of Cote d’Ivoire, representing President Alassane Ouattara, expressed his country’s readiness to work with Ghana to maximize the benefits for cocoa farmers. He emphasized the commitment of both nations to support farmers in reaping the full rewards of their labor, highlighting the potential for increased collaboration and mutual benefit.
