The Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA), Dr. Andy Osei Okrah, has held discussions with the Bono Regional Minister, Joseph Addae Akwaboa, to explore ways to revitalise the cashew industry in the region.

The two leaders emphasised the importance of strategic investments to attract investors and establish processing factories within Bono, as part of efforts to enhance the local cashew value chain.

Dr. Okrah highlighted that strengthening collaboration with stakeholders, particularly the support of the Regional Minister, would lead to increased job creation and bolster the local economy.

He also noted that this initiative aligns with President John Mahama's vision for a 24-hour economy, aiming to maximize productivity across multiple sectors.

During the meeting, Dr. Okrah underscored that developing the cashew industry requires a concerted effort from both the public and private sectors.

He urged for more investment partnerships to improve cashew processing capacity, ensuring that raw cashew nuts are processed locally rather than exported in their raw form.

Dr. Okrah expressed confidence that with the right support, the Bono Region could emerge as a major hub for cashew production and processing, ultimately improving employment and livelihoods.

Illegal Mining Threatens Cashew Industry

However, during the engagement, the Bono Regional Minister, Mr. Akwaboa, expressed concern about the growing issue of illegal mining (galamsey) in the region.

He revealed that some cashew farmers have resorted to selling their farmlands to illegal miners, a situation he described as a significant threat to the cashew industry and environmental sustainability.

The minister emphasised that those caught engaging in illegal mining activities would face the full force of the law and reaffirmed his commitment to combating galamsey in order to protect farmlands and ensure the long-term sustainability of tree crops in the region.

“We cannot allow illegal mining to destroy our lands and jeopardize the future of the cashew industry,” Mr. Akwaboa stated. “The government is committed to ensuring that our farmers and investors thrive in a secure and sustainable environment.”

The meeting highlighted the need for collaboration between government agencies, investors, and local farmers to unlock the full potential of the cashew industry in the Bono Region.

The establishment of processing factories is expected to add value to the cashew supply chain, create jobs, and contribute to economic growth. Simultaneously, efforts to curb illegal mining will help preserve farmlands and support sustainable agricultural development.

Dr. Okrah was accompanied by his deputy, Rich Kofi Kofi Tuo, who oversees operations; Sylvia Antwi, Deputy Director of Human Resources and Adams Buabeng, Cashew Value Chain Specialist.