In the cocoa-growing communities of Ghana’s Western North Region, cocoa farming is central to rural life. Many farmers depend on it for their income. At the same time, they face several serious challenges. Yields are declining due to climate change, poor farming practices and illegal mining. Families struggle to earn enough, which increases the risk of child labour. Cooperative structures are often weak, and many households rely only on cocoa. These issues threaten both livelihoods and the wellbeing of children.
To help address these concerns, the Cooperative for Community Development (COCODEP) Project, funded by Delicia Ltd and implemented by Agriterra, has begun a five-year effort to strengthen cocoa cooperatives in the Aowin Municipality. The project was officially introduced on 3 November 2025 at a stakeholder meeting organised by Agriterra at the Aowin Municipal Assembly Hall in Enchi.
The meeting brought together the Aowin Municipal Assembly, Department of Cooperatives, Department of Social Welfare, Ghana Education Service, Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Cocoa Health and Extension Division and the Aowin Municipal Cooperative Cocoa Farmers and Marketing Union. Their active participation highlighted the importance of working together to support farmers.
Main Issues in the Cocoa Sector
- Declining yields caused by climate change, poor practices, and illegal mining
- Risk of child labour when families do not earn enough
- Weak cooperative structures that limit access to good markets
- Limited diversification, which makes households vulnerable to income shocks
How the Project Supports Farmers
The COCODEP Project focuses on four main areas:
- Stronger cooperatives
Cooperatives will receive support to improve governance and financial management so they can negotiate better prices and access financing. - Income diversification
Farmers will be encouraged to explore other income options such as food crops and simple value-added cocoa products. - Better market access
The project will link cooperatives to buyers who offer premium prices and follow responsible sourcing standards. - Reducing child labour
Child Labour Protection Committees will be established. Communities will receive education on the issue, and schools will be involved to help ensure children stay enrolled.
Voices from the Inception Meeting
“This project is not only about cocoa. It is also about the future of our children and our communities. By strengthening cooperatives, we help farmers build resilience and earn a living income.”
Wekem Raymond Avatim, Project Lead
“We believe this project will help us get better prices for our cocoa. If our incomes improve, our children can remain in school.”
Joe-Asare Rockson, Farmer and Cooperative Union Chairman
“Our cooperative has already invested part of our VSLA funds in maize production. With the project’s support, we hope to expand this and rely less on cocoa alone.”
Farmer from Boinso Adjoum Ye Adwunadi Cooperative
“Every institution here has a role to play. Working together is essential to building a sustainable cocoa sector.”
Prince Ntim Asamoah, Cooperative Advisor
“Diversification is important. It gives farmers stability when cocoa yields fall. This project offers a clear path.”
Joseph Baba Ayelya, District Coordinating Director
Looking Ahead
With support from Delicia and Agriterra’s practical experience, the COCODEP Project will reach 3,000 farmers and their families over the next five years. The aim is to help farmers increase their income, strengthen their cooperatives and secure better opportunities for their children.
This project represents a shared commitment to a more sustainable cocoa sector. It supports farmers, protects children and encourages local prosperity. By working together, communities in Aowin can build a future where cocoa farming remains a reliable source of income and where rural families can thrive.
Sowing today. Thriving tomorrow.
