In Ivory Coast, cocoa farmers have nobody to sell their produce to
## Cocoa Production Challenges in Ivory Coast
Cocoa Production Challenges in Ivory Coast
Ivory Coast, a leading producer of cocoa, is experiencing significant challenges in its cocoa industry. The country faces a slowdown in exports and a decline in global cocoa prices, impacting thousands of smallholder farmers.
Many cocoa farmers in Ivory Coast, who have been struggling to sustain their livelihoods, are further affected by the current economic conditions. A 2019 report by the World Bank highlighted that more than 54.9% of cocoa producers lived on less than 757 CFA francs ($1.36) per day.
In response to rising global prices, the Ivorian government increased the payment to producers to 2,800 CFA francs per kilogram. However, due to recent export declines, the intended benefits have not fully materialized, with some farmers reporting delayed payments.
In villages like Betykro, families lack basic amenities such as electricity and reliable access to water. The universal health coverage provided by the state is reported to be insufficient for healthcare needs.
Ivory Coast, a leading producer of cocoa, is experiencing significant challenges in its cocoa industry.
The declining yield due to soil exhaustion and high living costs exacerbate the vulnerability of farmers. Many incur debts with cooperatives and crop protection sellers in an attempt to enhance production.
Ivory Coast has lost 90% of its forest cover in the last 60 years, limiting the expansion of cocoa plantations. According to the World Bank, productivity in cocoa groves has stagnated, with yields of 450 to 550 kilograms per hectare over the past 20 years.
Only six percent of profits from the global cocoa industry reach Ivory Coast. To address this, the government has invested in local cocoa processing facilities. Farmers are also diversifying to other crops such as oil palms and rubber trees to maintain their income.
Despite efforts to improve the cocoa sector, many farmers remain pessimistic about their future prospects. The ongoing economic challenges and environmental constraints contribute to a lack of motivation among the younger generation to continue in agriculture.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
