President John D. Mahama has sounded the alarm on the struggling sheanut factory in Buipe, calling for immediate redemptive action to revitalize the US$10 million agribusiness facility. Apexnewsgh reports
The President’s plea comes amidst concerns over the factory’s viability and the need for accountability.
During a courtesy call by the Ghana Cocoa, Coffee, and Sheanut Farmers Association (COCOSHE), President Mahama emphasized the urgent need for a reset this year.
He stressed that the government must ensure farmers receive a fair price, maintaining at least 70% of the producer price. The President also advocated for incentives and improved farming methods to make the sector more attractive.
The Buipe Sheanut Factory, established in 2012, was a joint venture between the Government of Ghana and Messrs Sysgate Brazil Limited. The factory aimed to add value to sheanuts and provide employment opportunities in the Savannah region, particularly for women. However, despite the previous government’s One-District, One-Factory (1D1F) initiative, the factory has struggled to stay afloat.
A 2004 USAID report highlighted the challenges faced by sheanut farmers in the Savannah area, where about 48% of sheanuts remain uncollected and underutilized due to lack of market access and risks involved. The Savannah region has the potential to produce 200,000 tonnes of sheanuts annually.
President Mahama’s call to action also extended to the ongoing crisis at the Produce Buying Company (PBC), where he urged a full audit and prosecution where necessary. As the government works to revive the sheanut factory, farmers and stakeholders eagerly await the outcome, hoping for a brighter future for the sector.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
