A recent study by Orozco-Aguilar et al. highlights the contributions of the CacaoFIT network—a collaborative effort among agronomists, researchers, and practitioners—to sustainable cocoa farming in Latin America and the Caribbean.
By assembling data from 25 experimental field trials across diverse agroecosystems, the network explores various cacao cultivation models suitable for smallholder farmers. Key findings indicate that mixed-shade agroforestry systems dominate, offering benefits such as improved biodiversity, soil health, and resilience against pests and diseases. The trials tested over 150 cacao genotypes under different management practices, including conventional and organic methods.
The research emphasizes the importance of selecting appropriate planting densities, shade canopy designs, and management practices to enhance yields and sustainability. For smallholder farmers, the insights from the CacaoFIT network provide practical guidelines on optimizing cocoa production while maintaining environmental stewardship.
The study underscores the need for public–private partnerships, capacity building, and data sharing to support small-scale farmers in adopting sustainable practices that can lead to increased productivity and improved livelihoods.
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