Kumasi: Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, has stated that cocoa alone is insufficient to support Ghana’s economic ambitions, emphasizing the need for strategic diversification.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Asantehene highlighted the significance of cocoa as a cornerstone of Ghana’s economy and a symbol of national discipline, sacrifice, and resilience. This statement was part of a speech delivered on his behalf by Nana Kwame Baffoe IV, the Nkoranza Manhene, at the 2026 Ghana Tree Crops Investment Summit and Exhibition.
The Asantehene expressed concerns about challenges facing cocoa, including pollution from illegal mining activities, known as Galamsey, and the impact of climate change, which is affecting rainfall patterns, shortening growing seasons, and increasing pest and disease prevalence. These factors have led to a significant decline in cocoa yields over the past decade in several growing areas.
Otumfuo praised the government’s efforts to diversify Ghana’s tree crop sector by focusing on other crops such as cashew, coconut, oil palm, rubber, mango, and shea. He emphasized that this diversification is based on economic logic, ecological necessity, and global market demand, warranting full national support and investment.
He pointed out that while cocoa currently generates around two billion dollars annually, it is feasible for six major tree crops to collectively generate twelve billion dollars or more annually for the country. The Asantehene stressed that this diversification journey will require patience, long-term capital, discipline, and effective coordination, as tree crops are not merely commercial commodities but potential drivers of sustainable growth.
The Asantehene also noted that tree crops are crucial for the country’s green economy ambitions, offering a sustainable pathway as they rehabilitate landscapes, stabilize soil, and protect watersheds. He urged traditional rulers, who control over 80 percent of Ghana’s land, to ensure quality land stewardship and make land available for responsible tree crop development.
The summit, themed “Sustainable Growth through Tree Crops Investment: Resetting and Building Ghana’s Green Economy,” was organized by the Tree Crop Development Authority in partnership with the World Bank and other organizations. The event was attended by President John Dramani Mahama and other government ministers.