John Dramani Mahama, flagbearer of the NDC
Former President John Dramani Mahama, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, has unveiled plans to establish cocoa processing factories in Ghana’s Western North Region. The initiative, he says, is a cornerstone of his industrial strategy to enhance local agro-processing and drive economic growth.
Speaking at a campaign rally in Enchi, Mahama underscored the need for a shift in Ghana’s cocoa production model. “The cocoa we ship abroad to produce chocolate for us is no longer sufficient,” he declared. “We’re tired of this arrangement and now need factories in the cocoa-growing areas to process the cocoa into chocolate locally.”
Mahama highlighted that situating processing plants in cocoa-rich areas, such as Aowin, would not only maximize Ghana’s share of cocoa profits but also generate much-needed jobs for local communities. “When the time comes, we will assess where cocoa production is highest. If the factories are located in Western North and Aowin, for instance, our youths will have job opportunities,” he assured.
The pledge comes amid growing concerns over the cocoa industry’s sustainability, with illegal mining activities posing a significant threat to production levels. Mahama’s strategy aims to tackle these challenges while fostering value addition within Ghana’s agriculture sector.
As the 2024 elections approach, Mahama’s industrial vision signals a commitment to addressing longstanding economic challenges and harnessing the nation’s agricultural potential for transformative growth.
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