Deputy Minister-Designate for Food and Agriculture, Hon. John Dumelo, has addressed two key issues during his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee today, February 25, 2025. He refuted claims of belonging to any secret society within the Catholic Church and called for improved cocoa pricing to curb illegal mining activities affecting farmlands.
During his vetting, Minority Leader Afenyo-Markin questioned Mr. Dumelo, a staunch Catholic and believer in the rosary, about his membership in any Catholic fraternity or secret society. In response, he firmly denied any such affiliation.
“I don’t belong to any society in the Catholic Church,” Mr. Dumelo stated. While he acknowledged the existence of various groups such as the Knights and Ladies of Marshall and the Knights and Ladies of St. John, he clarified that he was not involved in their activities.
On the agricultural front, Mr. Dumelo highlighted the pressing issue of cocoa farmers selling their lands to illegal miners due to low cocoa prices. He stressed that competitive pricing would deter farmers from seeking financial alternatives through mining deals.
“Giving cocoa farmers the right price will deter them from selling their cocoa farms,” he emphasized.
Mr. Dumelo further called for proper regulations in the mining sector to ensure responsible practices that do not harm farmlands.
“The mining industry must be well-structured so that operations do not negatively impact cocoa farms. However, the primary concern remains pricing,” he added. As he awaits approval for his ministerial position, Mr. Dumelo’s statements reinforce his commitment to his faith and agricultural policies aimed at protecting Ghana’s cocoa industry.
We wish him well as he reaches this new milestone in serving Ghana, Africa, and the world.
Also to Read:
