Akyem Asafo Cocoa Farmers Hail Cocobod's Anti-Illegal Mining Unit for Swift Action

Cocoa farmers in Akyem Asafo have expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the Ghana COCOBOD Anti-Illegal Mining Unit, led by Professor Michael Kwateng, for taking swift and decisive legal action to protect their farms from illegal mining activities and other disruptions.

The farmers had petitioned Ghana Cocobod after their chief, Barima Boampong Darkwanin III, sold 860 acres of their cocoa farms for the establishment of a military base and illegal mining. In response, the Anti-Illegal Mining Unit intervened and took the case to the Koforidua High Court.

The Koforidua High Court, presided over by Her Ladyship Justice Jennifer Anne Myers Ahmed (Mrs.), granted an injunction application filed by the farmers' legal team, halting any further activities by the defendants on the contested land.

Professor Kwateng expressed satisfaction with the court's decision, emphasizing that any unauthorized destruction of cocoa farms is a violation of the Economic Plant Protection Act (Act 47). He also highlighted the negative impact such activities have on Ghana's cocoa production capacity.

The farmers praised the support provided by Professor Kwateng and the Anti-Illegal Mining Unit, saying it gives them hope that their concerns will be addressed and their farms protected. This swift action has sent a strong message against illegal mining and land encroachment, ensuring the sustainability of Ghana's cocoa industry.