Why the World Cocoa Foundation’s Commitment Matters
Issues Facing Cocoa Farmers
In regions of the world where the weather is hot and the rain abundant, farmers can grow the cacao tree that yields cocoa beans. In Africa, Southeast Asia, Central America and South America, cocoa is an important source of income for millions of farmers, and for their communities.
These farmers, however, face many challenges, such as diseases that eliminate an estimated one third of cocoa crops worldwide, little access to the latest technology, and limited business training to effectively market their product. Despite their hard work, farmers may lose money if they cannot overcome these obstacles.
The result: a crop that enjoys a worldwide market doesn’t always deliver on its promise and potential to the person growing it. And if the cocoa farm fails, the farmer must move on — at times to pursue alternative crops with more certain short-term prospects, but less promising long-term rewards.
How the World Cocoa Foundation Helps
Through worldwide programs that boost farm incomes, strengthen the community and protect the environment, the World Cocoa Foundation (WCF) is helping cocoa farmers succeed.
The WCF believes that cocoa can—and must—play a positive role in farming communities worldwide, and helps cocoa farmers improve the quality and quantity of their crop while protecting the environment for future generations. WCF-supported programs also help strengthen the cocoa farming community – by tackling such critical issues as access to quality, relevant education, and by encouraging safe, responsible labor practices.
WCF member companies recognize that the issues facing cocoa farmers are important – and require the active engagement of the worldwide cocoa and chocolate industry. For WCF members, a partnership with the cocoa farmer is an essential part of their business.