Ghana's cocoa production is expected to decline by at least 16% in the 2026/27 season. Dr Frank Ackah, a senior crop scientist, warned that the dry spell gripping Ghana's cocoa belt will wipe out flowers and young pods across farms.
The decline is attributed to adverse weather conditions, the cocoa tree's natural bearing cycle, and disease.
The Cocoa Marketing Company (CMC) stated that the duration and severity of dry spells across Ghana's cocoa belt will be crucial for the 2026/27 crop. Prolonged heat and moisture stress during pod development could weigh on yields and tighten bean availability later in the season. The company urged farmers to conserve water and avoid bush burning.
The Ghana Meteorological Agency warned of a harsher-than-usual Harmattan from late November, with drier conditions and prolonged dry spells. Dr Ackah called for state support for irrigation, recommending portable sprinkler systems for farmers near water bodies. He also urged farmers to use mulch to conserve moisture around cocoa trees.
Dr Ackah noted that the risk extends beyond Ghana, with Côte d'Ivoire also expected to experience similar conditions. He urged policymakers to plan ahead and find alternative solutions instead of relying heavily on cocoa. The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) should provide more training on how farmers can manage their cocoa trees during drought conditions.
The expected decline in cocoa production will have significant implications for Ghana's economy, as cocoa is a major export commodity. The decline could lead to reduced revenue for cocoa farmers and the government. Dr Ackah's warning highlights the need for urgent action to mitigate the effects of climate change on Ghana's cocoa industry.