Cocoa farmers lament over delay in bonus payment

Anyinam (E/R) July 25, GNA - Some cocoa farmers in Akyem Abokoase, Sekyere and Enyiresi, in the Atiwa District, have expressed concern about the failure of government to release the second tranche of the 2008/2009 season bonus to them.

Mr Peter Tei Siameh, Produce Buying Company's (PBC) Chief Farmer of the area, who made this known on behalf of his colleagues, said the delay had hampered efforts to maintain their farms.

The Chief Farmer made this known in interaction with some marketing clerks at Sekyere at the weekend.

He said the second tranche bonuses were usually released at the end of major seasons, which assist them to prepare for the minor season.

Mr Siameh said the inability of the marketing clerks to pay bonuses to farmers creates misunderstanding and some times end up in physical attacks.

Mr Thomas K. Gyekye, Marketing Clerk for the PBC at Sekyere assured the farmers that the money would be paid in due course.

He urged them to sell their produce to only accredited agencies to avoid smuggling of the crop.