Ghana's Cocoa Challenges: Weather, Mining, and Rubber Plantations

In Ghana, cocoa production faces threats from adverse weather, illegal mining, and rubber plantation expansion, significantly impacting yields. Farmers and officials anticipate a further decline in cocoa output for the 2026/27 season due to these factors, compounded by the influence of the El Niño pattern.

Ghana's cocoa production is under threat as adverse weather conditions, illegal mining, and the expansion of rubber plantations impact yields, farmers warn. The 2026/27 season is expected to see a notable decline.

The Western and Western North regions, which contribute over half of Ghana's cocoa output, have seen a decrease in pod counts due to persistent rains, according to local farmers. Despite efforts to maintain farm conditions, Kwame Alex, a prominent grower, anticipates a significant reduction in his harvest.

The Concerned Farmers Association highlights the negative impact of the strengthening El Niño, which exacerbates wet conditions and spreads black pod disease, a damaging fungal infection. COCOBOD, Ghana's cocoa industry regulator, is advocating for stricter regulations to protect cocoa farms from illegal clearing for mining and rubber plantations.