The Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has declared that cocoa alone can no longer sustain Ghana’s economic ambitions, urging a strategic diversification of the country’s tree crop sector.
He noted that for generations, cocoa had been the bedrock of Ghana’s economy and a national symbol of discipline, sacrifice and resilience.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by the Nkoranza Manhene, Nana Kwame Baffoe IV, at the 2026 Ghana Tree Crops Investment Summit and Exhibition, the Asantehene cautioned that the crop now faces mounting challenges, including illegal mining activities that are polluting water bodies in cocoa-growing areas.
“It has educated our children, built our communities, sustained rural livelihoods and earned Ghana global recognition as a dependable agricultural producer,” he said.
He, however, indicated that the sector is under significant strain. “Climate change is altering rainfall patterns, shortening growing seasons and increasing pests and diseases. In several cocoa growing areas, yields have declined significantly over the past decade.”
The Asantehene commended the government’s initiative to diversify the tree crop sector, with renewed emphasis on cashew, coconut, oil palm, rubber, mango and shea.
“This vision is not speculative. It is firmly grounded in economic logic, ecological necessity and global market demand. As such, it deserves sustained attention and full national support and investment.”
He observed that if cocoa currently generated approximately two billion dollars annually, it was realistic to envisage a future in which six major tree crops collectively generate 12 billion dollars annually or more for the country.
“The combined strength of Ghana’s diverse tree crops can become a powerful engine of sustainable growth. This journey will however require patience, long-term capital, discipline and effective coordination. Tree crops are far more than commercial commodities.”
According to him, for a country seeking to reset and rebuild a green economy, tree crops present the most natural and reliable pathway to sustainable development.
He stressed that, unlike destructive activities that degrade land for short-term gain, tree crops reward foresight and stewardship.
“They are enduring environmental assets. They rehabilitate degraded landscapes. They stabilise soil and protect watersheds,” he noted.
As custodians of over 80 per cent of Ghana’s land, he said traditional rulers have responsibilities that go beyond customs and traditions to ensure responsible land stewardship.
“So, I therefore issue a clarion call to all traditional authorities across Ghana. So, let us deliberately make land available for large-scale, responsible tree crop development,” he said.
The summit, held on the theme “Sustainable Growth through Tree Crops Investment: Resetting and Building Ghana’s Green Economy”, was organised by the Tree Crops Development Authority in partnership with the World Bank and other organisations.
President John Dramani Mahama and other Ministers of State were in attendance.
