Former National Chairman of the NDC, Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, has described the recent viral videos of farmers cutting down cocoa trees as politically motivated, urging security agencies to arrest those involved.
He also called on cocoa-growing communities to identify and report perpetrators, stressing that cutting down cocoa trees without approval undermines the industry.
“Someone once approached me, wanting to buy my land in Kyebi. I looked at the money they were offering, and I realized I would incur a loss. The cutting down of cocoa trees by some farmers, as seen in viral videos, is politically motivated. The security agencies must take action and arrest these individuals. COCOBOD supervises cocoa plantations and provides free spraying machines and pesticides. Cocoa is an economic asset, and cutting down trees requires a permit. Authorities in cocoa-producing areas need to act against these illegal activities,” he said.
Mr. Ofosu Ampofo further revealed that a new law is being prepared through the Attorney-General’s Office to Parliament to prohibit the destruction of cocoa trees without replacement planting. He also suggested that sociologists and anthropologists research the motivations behind such actions, warning that selling farmlands for illegal mining often leaves farmers worse off.
“I am pleased to announce that a new law is being prepared to be sent through the Attorney General’s office to Parliament. This law will make it illegal to cut down cocoa trees without authorization. If you have a project that necessitates cutting trees, you will be required to plant more cocoa trees to replace those removed,” he stated.
Source: Farida Seidu | Adomonline
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