The Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) has expressed deep concern over the encroachment of 910 acres of government land at the Wenchi Agricultural Station in the Bono region, a critical research center supporting Ghana’s cashew industry.

The land, originally designated for cashew seedling production and agricultural research, has been taken over by private individuals and groups leaving less than 300 acres available for use.

The Wenchi Agricultural Station plays a crucial role in Ghana’s cashew industry by providing high-quality seedlings, conducting research, and offering technical support to farmers.

As a leading agricultural research center, it helps safeguard cashew production by improving crop resilience and boosting yields.

During his familiarisation tour of the Bono Region, the Acting CEO of TCDA, Dr. Andy Osei Okrah, was confronted with the alarming reality of land encroachment, which threatens not only cashew research but also the long-term sustainability of tree crop farming in Ghana.

According to Bright S.A. Sarpong, Deputy Station Manager, the continued encroachment will have serious consequences for agricultural research, affecting farmers and the cashew industry at large.

“Cashew is the backbone of this region’s economy. Without research, we cannot develop improved varieties or provide quality seedlings for farmers. If this land is lost, future generations will suffer the consequences,” said the deputy manager of Wenchi agricultural station Bright SA. Sarpong.

Dr. Okrah assured researchers and station staff that the government will take swift action to reclaim the encroached land and prevent further unauthorized development.

“We cannot allow critical agricultural research lands to be taken over. TCDA, in collaboration with relevant authorities, will ensure that this land is recovered and protected for future agricultural development,” he stated.

As part of his visit, Dr. Okrah also met with cashew traders and TCDA’s zonal staff in Wenchi to discuss key challenges in the industry, including public awareness, logistics, and policy implementation.

He emphasised the government’s commitment to revitalizing cashew production in the Bono Region, recognising it as one of Ghana’s key economic drivers.

The Bono Region remains a major hub for cashew production, and crops experts say without urgent action, the encroachment of research lands could stifle innovation, reduce cashew productivity, and threaten Ghana’s position in the global cashew market.