Improving Cocoa Farming in Côte d’Ivoire – A Sustainable Approach with CABOZ

Scaling Climate-Smart Cocoa Farming

The NECAAYO Agroforestry Project is transforming 1,000 hectares of cocoa farms in Côte d’Ivoire by implementing Dynamic Agroforestry (DAF) systems. This initiative enhances soil fertility, increases cocoa yields, improves farmer livelihoods, and strengthens climate resilience. The project, supported by the M-Climate Fund and led by Delica AG, introduces a nature-based farming approach that restores degraded land while promoting sustainable cocoa production.

Cocoa agroforestry conversion, farmer training, soil improvement, pest control, carbon sequestration

A wide range of activities will lead to the success of the project and improve the local cocoa production systems:

• Conversion of 1,000 hectares of cocoa monoculture into dynamic agroforestry systems.
• Integration of shade trees, nitrogen-fixing plants, fruit trees, and biomass species to improve soil structure and enhance productivity.
• Training for 2,000 farmers and technicians, ensuring long-term knowledge transfer and agroforestry adoption.
• Reduction of chemical inputs and promotion of natural pest and disease control, particularly against Cocoa Swollen Shoot Virus (CSSV).
• Carbon sequestration of up to 150,000 tonnes of CO₂ over 30 years, making cocoa farming more climate-resilient.

Key Benefits? A Stronger, More Profitable Cocoa Sector

• Higher Cocoa Yields: Farmers transitioning to agroforestry report improved productivity and better crop resilience.
• Increased Farmer Income: Additional revenue streams from bananas, avocados, cassava, and other agroforestry products complement cocoa earnings.
• Improved Soil Health and Water Retention: Biomass-rich systems restore soil fertility, reducing dependency on synthetic fertilizers.
• Climate Adaptation and Carbon Storage: The project supports reforestation and biodiversity conservation while reducing carbon emissions.