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Ghana Adds Charge to Keep Farmers Sweet on Cocoa

Stacey Knott

   ASIKESU, GHANA - Sixty percent of the world's cocoa production comes
   from two countries in West Africa -- Ghana and Ivory Coast. But for
   years, the farmers behind the beans have struggled with low income,
   raising concerns about the sustainability of the cocoa industry. The
   two nations have added a fee to improve farmers' incomes, but farmers
   say more needs to be done.

   Emmanuel Nodjo has been growing cocoa for 20 years to support his
   family. His 1.8-hectare (4.5-acre) farm has helped put his son through
   school and care for his extended family. But like most cocoa farmers in
   Ghana, he struggles to make ends meet.

   "We need cocoa-buying companies to support the farmers," Nodjo said.
   "But when we ask them, they say no, they don't use pre-finance."

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