Akufo -Addo Launches Cocoa Pension Scheme In Kumasi
The President of the Republic, Nana Akufo-Addo has launched the Cocoa Pension Scheme in Kumasi.
He said that the launching of the scheme is the results of government’s aim towards improving the circumstances of cocoa farmers.
When we talk of four more years for Nana, the cocoa pension scheme is an example.” He told a gathering at Kumasi Jubilee Park monitored by Wontumionline.com.
According to the President, there are thousands of cocoa farmers who are responsible for the introduction of crops that has over the century being the country’s main share.
“Recognition of this, Ghana Cocoabod was mandated under the section 26 of the Cocoabod law 1984 PNC law 81 to establish a contributory insurance scheme for cocoa farmers within the framework of the social security scheme so the farmers will enjoy a well deserving pension scheme upon retirement.”
He said that, successive government for various reasons were not able to fulfill this scheme
President Akufo-Addo noted that prior to the 2016 polls he made the solemn pledge that if Ghanaians vote for him he will introduce a cocoa pension scheme.
“Not just the fulfilment of the promise but to also inline with the government plan to improve the living standard of the cocoa farmers.”
For his part, Joseph Boahen Aidoo, Chief Executive Officer of Cocoabod said that the pension scheme was 35 years old late for launch but Nana Akufo -Addo’s government has made it a reality.
“If cocoa farmers have any commendation they should give to Akufo-Addo.” He said
He said that the cocoa farmers should thank President Akufo-Addo on 7th December 2020 by voting massively for him.
“President Akufo-Addo has done a lot for farmers.” He said
“He has introduced hand pollination to enhance the growing of cocoa fruit.” He said
He added that President Akufo-Addo has also introduced irrigation.
“Early spraying too President Akufo-Addo introduced it to kill the fall army worms” he further added
Hon. Boahen Aidoo noted that President Akufo-Addo has increased the price of cocoa from from 550 to 660 per bag despite reduction of cocoa price in the world market.
Hon. Boahen Aidoo revealed that, cocoa farmers of who are 55 years of age qualify for the pension scheme.
“President Akufo-Addo has a good arrangements for cocoa farmers.” He said
He indicated that farmers especially cocoa farmers found themselves wanting when their wards gets admission to the Senior High School.
The Cocoabod CEO bemoaned that, the farmers had to sell their properties in order to afford their children’s school fees.
But he said that President Akufo-Addo has introduced the free she to curb that predicament.
“If we give him more years every Ghanaian child would be a graduate” He said