RESEARCH NEEDS FOR SUSTAINABLE COCOA PRODUCTION IN GHANA

It is important to realise that in Ghana, it is acceptable for children to help their parents on the farm, especially since it is thought that cocoa production is very labour intensive (Anon., personal communication). Besides, there is a socialisation aspect to it, where children learn about cocoa farming by joining their parents in the work. However, there should be a distinction between child work and child labour. Child labour is defined as work that is hazardous and limits access to education.

Child labour is sometimes perceived to be an issue because ‘the west’ makes it an issue (Anon., personal communication). However, it is important to enhance farmers' income to allow them to hire adult labour and pay for their children’s education (there are no tuition fees up to Junior High School, but parents do need to pay for books and uniforms). This can be done by increasing cocoa production and by offering additional livelihood options. Moreover, community education can help to raise awareness on the health risks of child labour.