Cocoa Farmers Advised to Save During Harvest to Break Debt Cycle
Cocoa farmers have been advised to adopt a savings culture during the peak harvest season to protect themselves from financial hardships and reduce dependence on loans during the lean season. Industry experts warn that the growing reliance on borrowing in off-seasons often pushes farmers into crippling debt, destabilising farming households and threatening livelihoods. Speaking at a capacity-building workshop for women in the cocoa value chain at Nkrankwanta, District Cocoa Officer Johnson Asumah cautioned against reckless spending and stressed the need for prudent financial management. He said saving during harvest time is critical for breaking the cycle of debt. The workshop, which brought together over 300 women, also introduced participants to alternative livelihoods including organic pesticide production, fish farming, snail rearing, and soap making. Community Extension Agent Mercy Bempomaa Oduro-Gyan highlighted the importance of income diversification, saying it would enable women […]
