International Cocoa Day: Sustainable Production Under Scrutiny

Stakeholders in the cocoa production chain have reaffirmed their commitment in promoting sustainable cocoa produc­ tion, protecting forests and improving the livelihoods of cocoa farmers. This was during the 2026 edition of the in­ ternational Cocoa Day. The celebration that was organised by the WWF from September 30 to October 1 in Douala, brought together representatives of the Ministries of Trade, and Agriculture, cocoa producers, development partners, international organisations, private sec­ tor operators and other stakeholders. Speaking during the opening ceremony, the Country Director of WWF Cameroon, Alain Bernard Ononino, said the occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on the central role of cocoa as an economic pillar and as an ally in forest conserva­ tion, community wellbeing and the sus­ tainability of future generations. Ac­ cording to him, cocoa farming remains the main source of income for local communities and indigenous peoples. On his part, WWF Cameroon Commodity Lead, Jean Paul Nlend Nkott, disclosed that through technical assistance and structured support programmes, farmers are being trained to improve farm ma­ nagement and strengthen their pro­ duction capacities. He sounded off that, under its sustainable cocoa programme, WWF Cameroon has contributed to the restoration of 4,000 hectares of de­ graded land and reduced the use of chemical inputs by 15 per cent. He ad­ ded that WWF Cameroon is providing training in climate-smart agriculture, sustainable farming practices, pest ma­ nagement and gender-inclusive ap­ proaches. For the L...