(Ecofin Agency) - In Ghana, Kona Agro Processing Limited (KAPL), Brong-Ahafo’s biggest cashew processor stopped all operations, due to financial difficulties. The firm which employs around 250 people said it needs about $1.5 million to restart operations.

KAPL’s challenges emerged in a context where local industries struggle to get the commodity. The unit, prior to closing, used to process around 1,500 tons of cashews. While Ghana produces about 70,000 tons of cashews, this output is mainly exported. As a result, local processors lack input.

To overcome this challenge, the government plans to establish a council for cashew management which will monitor activities related to the nut’s value chain. Also, it wishes to provide more support to the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) so it can buy enough raw cashew nuts and develop a supply method which, when the need arises, will insure that local industries have enough cashews throughout the year.

Presently, Ghana processes only 5% of its cashew output.

Aaron Akinocho