The Gallant Cadres of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have entered the fray in the recent debate over cocoa producer prices, asserting that the current administration is being fair to farmers. They argue that the government’s price rationalization measures are necessary for the long-term sustainability of the sector.

In a press release issued on Sunday, February 15, 2026, the group provided a comparative analysis of cocoa pricing. They noted that under the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, when the international price of cocoa was $12,931 per tonne and the exchange rate was GH¢16 to the dollar, the government earned approximately GH¢206,896 per tonne. However, they claim that farmers were paid a mere GH¢33,120 per tonne during that period.

The Cadres criticized the previous government for failing to build sufficient reserves to protect farmers during market downturns when prices were at historic highs. This lack of foresight, they argued, has left the sector vulnerable. “Unfortunately, the cocoa sector we inherited was heavily burdened by weakened buffers, rising debts, and poor strategic planning,” the statement emphasized. “When prices were at historic highs, the opportunity to build strong reserves and protect farmers during downturns was not fully utilized.”

The global market, however, has since shifted dramatically. According to the Cadres, the international price has now fallen to approximately $4,100 per tonne, with an exchange rate of GH¢10.72 to the dollar. Consequently, government revenue from cocoa exports now stands at roughly GH¢43,952 per tonne. Out of this, farmers are paid GH¢41,392 per tonne—meaning nearly the entire revenue from cocoa exports goes directly to the farmers.

Based on these figures, the Cadres argue that the recent adjustment in cocoa prices is not a deliberate attempt to disadvantage farmers. Instead, it reflects the sharp decline in world market prices, a reality over which no Ghanaian government has control.

In a message aimed at reassuring farmers, the Cadres concluded that the current measures are not a sign of abandonment but rather an example of responsible leadership during difficult economic times. “You are valued. Your sacrifices are recognized. And under the NDC, your welfare remains a priority,” the statement assured.

PRESS RELEASE
TO ALL MEDIA HOUSES
THE GALLANT CADRES OF THE National Democratic Congress (NDC)

0208573712
0243179445
0546572070

COCOA PRICE ADJUSTMENT: THE TRUTH EVERY FARMER DESERVES TO KNOW

First and foremost, the Gallant Cadres of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) wish to address our hardworking cocoa farmers and the good people of Ghana regarding the recent cocoa price announcement.

Let us speak plainly and with facts. When the international market price of cocoa stood at $12,931 per tonne, and the exchange rate was GH¢16 to a dollar, government earned approximately GH¢206,896 from one tonne of cocoa. Yet, under the administration of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the farmer was paid only GH¢33,120 per tonne.

In other words, at a time when revenue was exceptionally high, the farmer received only a small portion of what the nation earned.

However, the global market has since changed dramatically. Today, the international price has fallen to about $4,100 per tonne, with an exchange rate of GH¢10.72. This means government now earns roughly GH¢43,952 per tonne from cocoa exports.

Importantly, out of this amount, farmers are being paid GH¢41,392 per tonne,almost the entire revenue government receives.

Clearly, the facts speak for themselves. Under the NPP, government earned over GH¢206,000 per tonne and paid the farmer only a fraction. Under the NDC, government earns below GH¢43,952 per tonne and returns nearly all of it to the farmer.

Therefore, the recent adjustment in cocoa prices is not a deliberate attempt to disadvantage farmers. Rather, it reflects the sharp fall in world market prices,a reality that no government in Ghana can control.

What government can control, however, is fairness. What government can control is transparency. What government can control is whether the farmer comes first.

Unfortunately, the cocoa sector we inherited was heavily burdened, weakened buffers, rising debts, and poor strategic planning. When prices were at historic highs, the opportunity to build strong reserves and protect farmers during downturns was not fully utilized.

Today, by contrast, the NDC has chosen honesty over deception and fairness over exploitation. Instead of shifting the burden onto farmers, we are ensuring that nearly every cedi earned from cocoa exports goes directly to the farmer.

As Gallant Cadres, we state without hesitation: the NDC stands firmly with cocoa farmers.

Indeed, cocoa is not merely a crop. It represents school fees, medical bills, food on the table, and the backbone of many rural communities. We understand this because we walk among the farmers. We come from these communities. We know their struggles.

Consequently, the NDC remains committed to stabilizing and revitalizing the cocoa sector through prudent financial management, transparency, and forward-looking policies that cushion farmers against future global shocks. Even in the face of declining world market prices,and despite allocating an unprecedented share of revenue directly to farmers, government will continue to provide essential support such as fertilizers and agrochemicals to boost productivity and sustain cocoa growth.

Furthermore, the Cocoa Scholarship Scheme will be restructured to ensure that it primarily benefits the children of genuine cocoa farmers, rather than individuals who are not directly connected to cocoa farming.

In conclusion, to every cocoa farmer across Ghana: this moment is not abandonment. It is responsible leadership in difficult times. You are valued. Your sacrifices are recognized. And under the NDC, your welfare remains a priority.

Comrade Richard E A Sarpong, Father Casford. The PRO, 0208573712

Ohemaa Akosua Borngreat, Deputy PRO, 0243179445

Mr F Kadan, Secretary, 0242276044

Mr Eric Takyi, Deputy Secretary, 0546572070

Mr Carrick Kpeglo, Chairman, 0542002741

Mr Lawrence Odoom, Vice Chair, 0272626466

Source By DC Kwame Kwakye

The Nae We Arbitration Court has delivered a decisive ruling in the defamation suit filed by Ola Maame, founder of The Ola’s Herbal and Spiritual Center (Soul Travel, Ghana), against Prophet Jedidiah Henry Kore popularly known as Fire Oja.

The case stemmed from a series of defamatory comments made by Fire Oja against Ola Maame and veteran musician Mzbel. In its ruling on Thursday, February 12, 2026, the court presided over by the Highest Chief Priest and custodian of Ga traditions, Nuumo Akwaa Mensah III (the Nae Wulomo), found in favour of the plaintiff.

The Judgement

Delivering the ruling in the presence of both parties and their associates, the Nae Wulomo declared that Ola Maame had emerged victorious. Fire Oja was ordered to provide the following items as customary appeasement and compensation:

· 4 rams
· 12 fowls
· 1 box of Castle Bridge
· 1 gallon of Apketeshie (local gin)
· 6 full pieces of Khalico cloth
· 1 box of wine
· 6 bottles of whiskey
· ¢50,000 in monetary compensation

Additionally, the court imposed separate fines totalling ¢22,000 to cover procedural fees—comprising ¢10,000 for summons, ¢6,000 for opening fees, and ¢6,000 for closing fees. The total value awarded in favour of the plaintiff therefore amounted to ¢72,000, alongside the customary items.

Court Finds Fire Oja’s Claims Baseless

Speaking to the press after the ruling, Reverend Nii Artey Adjei, official translator of the Nae We court, detailed the proceedings. He noted that following Ola Maame’s formal complaint, the court heard testimonies from both parties and their respective witnesses.

After weeks of deliberation, the court concluded that there was “not an iota of truth” in the allegations made by Fire Oja. According to Rev. Adjei, the pastor’s submissions were incoherent and entirely unsubstantiated.

“Fire Oja failed to provide any evidence supporting his claim that Ola Maame engaged in sexual activities on her altar,” Rev. Adjei stated. “He also failed to produce any DNA test results to back his allegation of infidelity against the plaintiff’s child. After careful consideration of the facts, Fire Oja did not prove his case. Judgement was delivered against him.”

Disrespect for Custom and Consequences

Rev. Adjei also expressed concern over Fire Oja’s conduct in leaving the proceedings before the final judgement was read. He described the action as “a blatant disregard for our traditions and customs,” warning that such behaviour carries serious repercussions.

“Fire Oja should be careful,” he stressed. “The consequences of his actions could be dire.” He further explained that the Nae We Arbitration Court is recognised by the High Court of Ghana, and any disrespect shown here could have legal implications should the matter be escalated.

A Recognised Institution of Justice

Rev. Adjei underscored the deep roots of the Nae We court as an arbitration institution. “This location has served as a home for arbitration since before many of us were born,” he said. “We have now matured to take over from our predecessors, ensuring seamless adjudication rooted in our traditional values.”

Conclusion

With the court’s final verdict delivered in her favour, Ola Maame stands vindicated. The ruling affirms that Fire Oja’s allegations were not only false but deliberately malicious and intended to tarnish her reputation in the eyes of the public.

Whether the embattled prophet will demonstrate sufficient humility to pay the full damages and seek reconciliation remains to be seen.

Source By DC Kwame Kwakye

ASSIN FOSU – Underscoring a deep commitment to environmental health and public safety, the Omanhene of the Affutuakwa Traditional Area, Okumanini Baffour Asare Kyeahene II, has conducted an extensive tour of the Assin Fosu township. The tour marks the beginning of a strategic drive to restore the town’s waterways and enforce strict sanitation standards across all business sectors.

The exercise began with an inspection of the town’s rivers. The Omanhene oversaw the assessment of these vital water bodies, spearheading a cleaning initiative aimed at removing blockages to mitigate the perennial threat of flooding that often plagues the township during the rainy season.

Moving to the commercial heart of the town, the Omanhene engaged directly with traders and shop owners. He advised market women on the necessity of sweeping their stalls daily to maintain a hygienic trading environment. To ensure a litter-free town, Okumanini issued a formal directive requiring every shop and store operator to station a dustbin in front of their premises, making proper waste disposal accessible to all.

The tour also included a strategic visit to the Assin Fosu Slaughterhouse. There, the Omanhene inspected facility operations and hygiene protocols, stressing that food safety is non-negotiable. He reminded workers that the health of the entire community depends on the cleanliness of their operations.

Closing the tour with a firm warning, the Omanhene stated that the traditional council, in collaboration with local government authorities, will conduct regular follow-up inspections.

“A ‘Clean Assin Fosu’ is a collective legacy,” the Omanhene remarked. “We must cooperate to protect our town from disease and environmental disasters.”

Any business or individual found flouting these new sanitation standards will face the necessary traditional and administrative sanctions.

Source By DC Kwame Kwakye