The Presidents of Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana have reinforced their commitment to sustainable cocoa production through a landmark high-level summit in Abidjan. Alassane Ouattara and John Dramani Mahama convened the gathering to advance policies that prioritize farmer welfare, economic resilience, and continental leadership in the global cocoa trade.
The two nations, which together supply over 60% of the world’s cocoa and 80% of Africa’s production, emphasized the need for coordinated strategies to address critical challenges. These include stabilizing farmgate prices, enhancing value addition, and countering threats like climate change, aging cocoa trees, and illegal mining encroachment on farmlands.
Building a fairer cocoa economy
President Ouattara highlighted the cocoa sector as a cornerstone of development, noting its role in funding national policies while supporting millions of livelihoods across West Africa. He underscored the importance of placing farmers at the heart of decision-making: « The farmer is the backbone of this industry. Their daily labor sustains the global chocolate market and shapes the future of our economies. »
The 2018 Abidjan Declaration, which established a minimum price floor for cocoa, has already improved incomes for smallholders. President Ouattara praised this achievement, stating that unified action by Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana can influence global market trends and ensure fairer trade conditions.
Expanding collaboration and innovation
President Mahama echoed this vision, stressing the need to empower farmers through better financing, shared best practices, and expanded regional partnerships. « Our goal is to secure a thriving future for cocoa producers, » he said. « By working together, we can set standards that benefit the entire continent. »
The leaders also addressed emerging pressures, including stricter international sustainability regulations and competition from alternative crops. Their discussions focused on long-term solutions to safeguard the sector’s competitiveness and environmental sustainability.
Toward a sustainable cocoa legacy
With cocoa remaining vital to Africa’s economic stability, the summit reaffirmed the two countries’ role as global trailblazers. Their joint efforts aim to create a model for ethical production, fair wages, and ecological stewardship—ensuring that West Africa’s cocoa farmers continue to thrive for generations.
