Demeter Ghana and COCOBOD train cocoa farmers in sustainable practices with Asaase Hene fertiliser
Demeter Ghana Limited, a leading provider of innovative agricultural solutions, has partnered with the CHED division of COCOBOD to promote sustainable growth in Ghana’s cocoa sector through a targeted training event held in Koforidua.
The initiative, which forms part of a nationwide programme, equipped farmers with essential skills to enhance productivity, improve soil health, and adopt best practices using the multi-nutrient sulphate cocoa fertiliser, known as Polysulphate (Asaase Hene).
The event brought together 120 participants, including cocoa farmers from all 11 cocoa farming districts in the Eastern Region, 10 trial farmers who have already used Asaase Hene and testified to its efficacy, CHED officials, COCOBOD representatives, and experts from ICL Group— a leading global specialty minerals and chemicals company delivering innovative and sustainable solutions to address critical challenges in agriculture, food, and renewable energy.
The Country Manager at Demeter Ghana, William Hunt, emphasised the importance of sustainability in Ghana’s cocoa industry.
“Cocoa sustains Ghana’s economy, and its future depends on sustainability. Asaase Hene enhances soil fertility and boosts yields naturally. Through our partnership with COCOBOD, we’re equipping farmers with the skills to maximise its benefits while securing the long-term viability of the cocoa sector.”
COCOBOD sees the partnership as a significant reinforcement of its mission to ensure cocoa farming remains viable for future generations.
“This partnership with Demeter Ghana Limited is a step toward achieving our sustainability goals,” said Abdul Majid Mumuni, Acting Deputy Executive Director, CHED COCOBOD.
“By leveraging science-backed solutions and training programmes, we can improve yields while ensuring that Ghana’s cocoa remains globally competitive and environmentally responsible.”
Launched in 2024, Asaase Hene is an organic fertiliser that delivers both macro and micro-nutrients essential for optimal cocoa yields. Its slow nutrient release—up to 50 days—makes it particularly suitable for enhancing soil health and supporting long-term productivity of cocoa trees.
Early adopters of Asaase Hene have already reported significant improvements, with some farmers experiencing yield increases of over 70 per cent. These results underscore the fertiliser’s potential to address productivity gaps in the cocoa sector.
“Since I started using Asaase Hene, my farm has changed completely. My trees look healthier, and my harvest has nearly doubled,” said Solomon Boadi, one of the early adopters.
“Demeter Ghana Limited and ICL have brought us something valuable. This fertiliser is the game changer.”
The training session was facilitated by a team of experienced agricultural experts, including specialist trainers from ICL and seasoned professionals within the cocoa industry.