The Executive Director of the African Centre for Environment and Sustainability, Dr Clement Abaidoo, has said that illegal mining (galamsey) is a threat to Ghana's cocoa production.

He stated that galamsey has led to a 50% reduction in cocoa production, posing a substantial threat to the country's cocoa industry.

Speaking on JoyNews' AM Show on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, Dr Abaidoo explained that the decline in cocoa production does not only affect the economy, but also threatens the livelihoods of farmers and their families.

“The foundation of this country is cocoa; take it or leave it. The government must do everything possible to deal with the troubling issue of galamsey otherwise the official records and recognition of Ghana’s cocoa will be very minimal, “he indicated.

Dr Clement Abaidoo also stated that the production and sale of cocoa will not gain the competitive advantage internationally if the galamsey situation is not dealt with.

He emphasised the need to protect the cocoa industry and ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their produce to support the local economy.

MRA/AE

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