The objective is to cut off the needless politicization, nepotism and theft that hitherto characterized the distribution of fertilizers

The Subsidized fertilizer distribution programme is receptive to stimulate an industry that is one of Ghana’s top earners of foreign exchange and accounts for about 7 percent of gross domestic product.

It is also aimed at eliminating market distortions as well as steps to map cocoa farms and soil, improve sector management, upgrade ports and storage facilities and rehabilitate ageing trees.

Again, the ordinary cocoa farmer will get the right fertilizer which will help stimulate productivity and increase livelihood.

MODE OF DISTRIBUTION

Farmer based Cooperatives are formed, in order to facilitate equitable distribution of fertilizers. Each farmer must belong to a community farmer based corporative.

Cooperatives then must apply for the subsidized fertilizers at Cocobod. Farmers can therefore apply through these approved farmer-based cooperatives.

Farmers are given a one-year moratorium for the payment of the subsidized fertilizers.

BENEFITS

The application and distribution of the subsidized encourage farmers to apply more fertilizer to restore soil nutrients depletion to enable a smooth process during cocoa production.

The Subsidized Programme, which makes use of the private sector in the distribution processes, seeks to ensure availability, equity, and transparency.

The introduction of this new scheme, with active private sector participation, has also helped to create jobs to boost economic growth in the country.

Farmers also get their fair share of subsidized fertilizer types which help increase productivity and livelihood

APPLICATION OF FERTILIZER

Foliar plant spray involves applying fertilizer directly to a plant’s leaves as opposed to putting it in the soil. The application of the granular fertilizer is the spreading the fertilizer around the base of the cocoa tree.