Koforidua: President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to boost local cocoa processing and expand rural employment as part of his government's economic transformation drive. Speaking at a gathering during the 2026 May Day celebration at Jackson Park on May 1, the president said the Resetting Ghana Agenda is focused on adding value to the country's agricultural resources rather than exporting them in raw form.
According to Ghana Web, President Mahama emphasized the importance of shifting from exporting raw cocoa beans to processing them locally, particularly for farmers in the Eastern Region. He stated that the policy is aimed at achieving 50% local processing of Ghanaian cocoa beans by next year. The initiative targets strengthening agro-industrialisation while creating jobs, especially for young people in rural communities. Government support for local agro-processing hubs will play a key role in generating sustainable livelihoods.
President Mahama also highlighted recent efforts to support farmers directly, including the launch of a farmer service centre intended to improve productivity. He mentioned the inauguration of a farmer's service centre in Afram Plains, which aims to help farmers expand cultivation, increase yields, and improve incomes. Beyond economic growth, the president stressed the importance of investing in human capital, particularly health, as a foundation for sustainable development, stating that a "Reset Ghana means a healthy Ghana."