Women’s Organizer for the United Party, Hajia Gloria Amenu, has urged greater youth participation in cocoa farming and warned against selling farmland to illegal mining operators, following protests by cocoa farmers in the Western North Region over the recent reduction of the cocoa producer price.

On Thursday, February 19, 2026, farmers from districts including Sefwi Wiawso, Juaboso and Bia West took to the streets, waving placards reading “Restore Our Price Now” and “Cocoa Sustains Ghana, Don’t Neglect Farmers.”

The demonstrations were sparked by the government’s decision to reduce the producer price from GH¢3,625 to GH¢2,587 per 64‑kilogram bag. Farmers argued that the new rate barely covers the rising costs of labour, fertiliser and transport, leaving many struggling to maintain their livelihoods.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, February 21, Hajia Amenu highlighted the importance of adding value to Ghana’s cocoa and fostering youth involvement in the sector.

“Adding value to our cocoa is very important and key. We are just hoping that the youth will find pleasure in the cultivation of cocoa,” she said.

She also cautioned landowners against collaborating with illegal miners, known locally as galamsey operators.

“We are pleading that those who are thinking of selling their lands to galamsey operators should rethink. Some believe that if a galamseyer comes and helps you get a licence, you are going to be rich, but they will cut down the cocoa trees,” she warned.