Chief Executive Joseph Boahen Aidoo, the Ghana Cocoa Board, has called on women in cocoa farming to support the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as the country approaches the crucial elections on December 7th.
He made this appeal during the launch of the “Eastern Women in Cocoa Cooperative” in Koforidua. The cooperative aims to empower women involved in cocoa farming, enhance their livelihoods, and create opportunities for economic growth.
According to Aidoo, the NPP government has a strong track record of supporting women, starting from the tenure of former president John Agyekum Kufuor, who introduced the Free Maternal Care policy. He highlighted that under the current administration of President Akufo-Addo, the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy has been implemented, along with promises from the upcoming NPP administration led by Bawumia to cover tuition fees for children of cocoa farmers.
Aidoo emphasized that these policies are vital for supporting women, particularly within the cocoa industry, and deserving of their backing in this year’s election.
He expressed enthusiasm about the cooperative’s launch, noting Ghana’s significant achievement of producing cocoa seeds independently for the first time without foreign loans.
The cooperative is set to benefit women and their children, promising scholarships to new university students if cocoa farmers support Bawumia’s presidential campaign.
Osahene Boafo Ansah III, Akuapem Krontihene, underscored the importance of women’s participation in cocoa farming due to their caregiving skills and ability to take on responsibilities. He urged cooperative members to work collaboratively, promote peace, and avoid greed and selfishness.
