Accra: Asetenapa Co-operative Cocoa Farming and Marketing Union Limited has conducted its 6th Annual General Meeting (AGM), emphasizing the need for expanding operations and enhancing cocoa farm management to achieve higher yields and sustainability.
According to Ghana News Agency, the AGM was held in Nankese, a notable cocoa-growing community in the Eastern Region, under the theme 'From Dreams to Reality: Protecting What Matters.' The event gathered over 60 cocoa farmers and stakeholders within the cocoa value chain.
Mr. Mark Ayivor, President of Asetenapa Co-operative Cocoa Farming and Marketing Union Limited, addressed attendees, highlighting the issue of cocoa prices falling short of expectations. He suggested that expanding operations and providing farmers with better practices could help boost yields and mitigate the financial shortfall. He emphasized the importance of protecting values, unity, environment, and livelihoods that sustain families, ensuring that the vision of Asetenapa continues to thrive for future generations.
Mr. Ayivor further reflected on the union's journey from a dream to a reality, empowering communities, uplifting women and youth, and creating lasting opportunities. He noted that the union had exceeded expectations, reinforcing their belief in a promising future. He assured COCOBOD and international partners of Asetenapa's strategic positioning to increase cocoa production for export.
Mr. Kennedy Kontor, Director of the Nankese Cocoa Health and Extension Division, COCOBOD, recognized the discouragement among farmers due to recent price announcements. He stressed the importance of encouraging farmers and promoting sustainable approaches to yield improvement. By increasing yields, he argued, farmers could enhance the profitability of their ventures. Mr. Kontor outlined strategies such as timely cultural practices and effective use of poultry manure to improve productivity. He also advocated for artificial pollination to significantly enhance yields.
Mr. Winston Wotse, Data and Traceability Officer at Tony's Open Chain, Ghana, spoke on their partnership with Asetenapa to address issues like child labor and improve living standards for cocoa farmers. He emphasized the importance of increasing productivity to provide better livelihoods for farmers. Looking to the future, Mr. Wotse envisioned growth for Asetenapa, focusing on enrolling more farmers into the cooperative.
