Cocoa alone can no longer carry our economic aspiration – Otumfuo

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, says cocoa alone can no longer carry the full weight of Ghana’s economic aspirations, hence the need for strategic diversification.

He observed that for generations, Cocoa has been the bedrock of Ghana’s economy and a national symbol of discipline, sacrifice and resilience.

The Asantehene, in a speech read on his behalf by the Nkoranza Manhene, Nana Kwame Baffoe IV at the 2026 Ghana Tree Crops Investment Summit and Exhibition said Cocoa as a cash crop faces serious and growing threats that included Galamsey-induced pollution of water bodies.

“It has educated our children, built our communities, sustained rural livelihoods and earned Ghana global recognition as a dependable agricultural producer,”

He however indicted that, “Climate change is altering rainfall patterns, shortening growing seasons and increasing pests and diseases. In several cocoa growing areas, yields have declined significantly over the past decade.”

Otumfuo commended government’s initiative to diversify Ghana’s tree crop sector with emphasis on cashew, coconut, oil palm, rubber, mango and shea.

“This vision is not speculative. It is firmly grounded in economic logic, ecological necessity and global market demand. As such, it deserves sustained attention and full national support and investment.”

He noted that if cocoa currently generated approximately two billion dollars annually, it was realistic to envisage a future in which six major tree crops collectively generate 12 billion dollars annually or more for the country.

“The combined strength of Ghana’s diverse tree crops can become a powerful engine of sustainable growth. This journey will however require patience, long-term capital, discipline and effective coordination.

Tree crops are far more than commercial commodities.”

He said that for a country seeking to reset and rebuild a green economy, tree crops presented the most natural and reliable pathway.

He observed that unlike destructive activities that degraded the land for short-term gain, tree crops rewarded foresight, stewardship and long-term commitment.

“They are enduring environmental assets. They rehabilitate degraded landscapes. They stabilise soil and protect watersheds,” he noted.

As custodians of over 80 per cent of Ghana’s land, he said traditional rulers have responsibilities beyond customs and traditions to ensure quality land stewardship.

“So, I therefore issue a clarion call to all traditional authorities across Ghana. So, let us deliberately make land available for large-scale, responsible tree crop development,” he said.

The summit held on the theme, “Sustainable Growth through tree Crops Investment: Resetting and Building Ghana’s Green economy” was organised by the Tree Crop Development Authority with partnership from the world bank and other organisations.

In attendance was President John Dramani Mahama and other ministers of state.