Cashew farmers in Bono East Region are raising alarm over the lack of ready markets for their produce, warning that the situation is pushing many into financial hardship, as unsold cashew continues to pile up.
The farmers, who rely heavily on cashew for their livelihoods say they are unable to secure buyers, leaving them stranded and increasingly vulnerable.
What began as concerns within the cocoa sector, they noted, has now spread to other crops, deepening the agricultural crisis in the region.
Their frustrations came to light during a tour by the Minority Caucus, led by Nsawam-Adoagyiri MP and Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh.
The team visited key farming communities including Kintampo South, Nkoranza North and Nkoranza South, as part of a nationwide engagement with farmers.
During the visit, scores of cashew farmers voiced their concerns, describing how harvested produce remains unsold while incomes continue to shrink.
Many said anticipated government interventions, particularly through buffer stock arrangements and market support systems have yet to materialise.
They are now calling for urgent government action, including the release of funds and the introduction of policies to attract buyers and stabilise prices. Without swift intervention, they warn, the cashew industry in the region risks collapse.
The challenges extend beyond cashew.
Farmers cultivating maize, rice, yams and other cereals across Bono East region report similar struggles, including falling prices, limited market access and rising production costs.
In the absence of structured markets, many say they are forced to sell to middlemen at unfavourable rates, further eroding their earnings.
The Bono East tour forms part of a broader effort by the Minority Caucus to gather firsthand accounts of the difficulties facing farmers nationwide.
Since arriving in the region, the team has also engaged farmers in Atebubu-Amantin, Pru West, Kintampo North and surrounding areas, where concerns over delayed payments, weak market systems and inadequate government support have been consistent.
Addressing the farmers, Mr. Annoh-Dompreh assured them that their grievances would be presented in Parliament and at the national level.
He reiterated the Minority’s commitment to pushing for policies that safeguard farmers’ livelihoods and strengthen the agricultural sector, stressing the need for urgent action to restore confidence and prevent further decline in productivity.
Source: Thechroniclegh.com
Discussion about this post