COCEFAAA LAUNCHES THREE-YEAR STRATEGY TO REVAMP COCOA, COFFEE SECTOR.
The Cocoa, Coffee and Farmers Association of Africa has unveiled a comprehensive three-year strategy aimed at revitalising the cocoa and coffee sectors across Africa, with a focus on boosting productivity, enhancing value addition, and improving farmers’ livelihoods.The association disclosed that the strategic plan is designed to address long-standing challenges affecting the industries, including low yields, ageing plantations, limited access to finance, and weak market structures.According to COCEFAAA, the initiative will prioritise the distribution of improved seedlings and rehabilitation of old farms, ensuring that farmers can increase output and maintain sustainable production levels. The programme will also promote modern agronomic practices to enhance efficiency.A key component of the strategy is the strengthening of value chains, particularly in processing and marketing. The association aims to support the development of local processing capacity, enabling African countries to move beyond exporting raw cocoa and coffee to producing finished and semi-processed products with higher market value.COCEFAAA also highlighted plans to improve market access and pricing mechanisms, ensuring that farmers receive fair compensation for their produce. This includes fostering better linkages between farmers, cooperatives, and international buyers.In addition, the strategy emphasizes capacity building and training programmes to equip farmers with knowledge on best practices, quality standards, and sustainable farming methods. These efforts are expected to improve both productivity and product quality.Stakeholders noted that climate change poses a significant threat to cocoa and coffee production, making it necessary to adopt climate-resilient farming techniques and invest in research and innovation.The association also called for stronger collaboration with governments, financial institutions, and development partners to mobilise the resources needed for effective implementation of the strategy.Experts have welcomed the initiative, noting that revitalising the cocoa and coffee sectors could significantly contribute to export earnings, job creation, and rural development across Africa.However, they emphasized the need for consistent policies, adequate funding, and effective monitoring to ensure the success of the programme.COCEFAAA reaffirmed its commitment to driving sustainable growth in the cocoa and coffee industries, expressing confidence that the three-year strategy will help transform the sectors into competitive and profitable value chains.#agricnews #agrigensmedia #agricheadlinews #agricdiscussion
