Ghana COCOBOD has distributed more than 2.8 million hybrid cocoa seedlings, 67,794 shade trees and 21,000 bags of free fertiliser to 2,705 cocoa farmers in the Techiman South District of the Bono East Region to boost cocoa production and address climate-related challenges.
The intervention aims to improve cocoa yields and support farmers facing rising temperatures, irregular rainfall and declining productivity in parts of the district.
According to Nana Osei Agyeman Prempeh, the Techiman District Extension Coordinator of COCOBOD’s Cocoa Health and Extension Division (CHED), the seedlings, shade trees and fertiliser are intended to strengthen cocoa farming and help farmers adapt to changing weather conditions.
Communities benefiting from the initiative include Ayigbe, Nkoranza, Jama and Wenchi.
COCOBOD Promotes Climate-Smart Cocoa Farming
Mr Prempeh said the district had proposed irrigation programmes to COCOBOD management as an additional measure to help farmers maintain production despite unpredictable rainfall patterns.
He also urged cocoa farmers to adopt climate-smart agricultural practices, including intercropping cocoa with cashew trees, applying organic manure and pruning cocoa trees regularly.
Cashew trees can provide shade for cocoa farms, while decomposing leaves and other organic materials help improve soil fertility. Organic manure, such as poultry droppings and cow dung, can also enhance soil conditions and support healthy crop growth.
He explained that pruning improves airflow within cocoa farms and helps reduce conditions that encourage insect infestations.
COCOBOD Optimistic About Cocoa Production
Despite the challenges posed by high temperatures and changing rainfall patterns, Mr Prempeh expressed optimism about the future of cocoa farming in Techiman South.
He said the distribution of improved cocoa seedlings, free fertiliser and shade trees, alongside farmer education on sustainable farming methods, could help increase productivity and improve farmers’ yields.
The initiative forms part of efforts to support cocoa farmers, promote sustainable agriculture and strengthen Ghana’s cocoa industry amid growing climate-related pressures.
Source: newsthemegh.com