Mampong (Ash), Sept 1, GNA - A prominent farmer has appealed to cocoa farmers to take advantage of the attractive packages introduced by the government to expand their farms and boost earnings.

Nana Kwame Amankwatia, the Ashanti Regional Chief Farmer, said cocoa farming has now become more rewarding. "Let us therefore ensure that this opportunity to better our lives is not allowed to slip away." He was addressing the Mampong-Agona District branch of the Ghana, Cocoa and Sheanut Farmers' Association (GCCSFA) after the election of new district officers.

The regional chief farmer told his colleagues to make land readily available to the unemployed youth, who show the desire to go into farming.

They should also monitor the use of chemicals and other inputs meant for the mass spraying exercise in their areas to prevent diversion.

Nana Kwabena Obeng, the new District Chief Farmer, said the farmers are grateful to the Kufuor Administration for the mass spraying exercise.

This, he said, had brought tremendous relief to farmers. "There are clear signs that cocoa production in our district will go up this cocoa season."

Nana Obeng appealed to the government to help put into good shape the Agona-Wiamoase road to facilitate easy evacuation of cocoa and food crops produced in the area.