IMPACT OF COCOA FARMING PRACTISES ON BIODIVERSITY IN GHANA

Abstract

This thesis examines the effects of cocoa farming practices on biodiversity in Ghana. It focuses on the health of soil, loss of habitat and ecological balance within the cocoa farming areas. With the use of secondary data from journals, government reports and international reports and also data from primary sources from selected cocoa farmers. The study indicates the environmental obstacle associated with cocoa faming. The findings of the research show that common practices, such as deforestation and monoculture, plays much role in soil degradation and decrease in native species, affecting the whole ecosystem’s health. However, there is reasonable willingness among the farmers to adopt sustainable farming practices if being given enough support such as training and financial support. Enforcing strict environmental policies, encouraging agroforestry and collaboration among cocoa farming stakeholders, government and NGOs were recommended to combat the impact of cocoa farming practices on biodiversity. The thesis also outlines the need to use a multifaceted method to foster a sustainable industry that accepts both biodiversity and economic goals in Ghana. The study was conducted in the Western North part of Ghana, in a cocoa farming community called Sefwi Wiawso which produces about 2/3 of Ghana’s cocoa production.