Ecotop Suisse supports gebana in its project aimed at enhancing sustainable cocoa farming practices and promoting food security in Togo, West Africa. This project focuses on empowering cocoa farmers and implementing innovative approaches to drive positive change in the cocoa supply chain.
The project encompasses various key components, including the digitalization of supply chain traceability, farmer information, and payments through the implementation of the SmartFarm tool. This digital tool strengthens transparency, traceability, and organic integrity while facilitating effective farmer data management.
By increasing access to prefinance through microcredits and exploring innovative financial models like the concept of a harvest fund based on crowd investment, the project supports farmers in overcoming financial challenges and improving their economic resilience.
Training programs on good agricultural practices and organic pest management have been conducted by ECOTOP, empowering farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to improve their cocoa production. Moreover, the project introduces farmers to the Dynamic Agroforestry (DAF) approach, demonstrating its potential benefits through the establishment of demonstration plots and providing comprehensive training.
The project enhances cocoa farming through Dynamic Agroforestry (DAF) by establishing new plots, pruning aging trees, and planting biomass-producing species to improve soil fertility and water retention. It supports farmers with training on agroforestry techniques, monitors soil health and yields, and promotes land restoration through climate-resilient practices like DAF islands and multi-species planting.
The collaboration between ECOTOP and gebana extends beyond the project duration, as both organizations are committed to long-term sustainability. Follow-up activities executed by ECOTOP include refresher trainings for field agents, ongoing support for organic pest management and good agricultural practices, as well as the expansion of DAF practices.
