Closing the Cocoa Yield Gap Through Rejuvenation

Cocoa production in West Africa, which accounts for two-thirds of global supply, is plagued by systemic poverty. Yields hover around 300 kg/ha, far below potential, directly contributing to low incomes. Many of the cocoa trees in Côte d’Ivoire were planted in the 1980s and are well past peak production. Climate stress and disease pressure have compounded the problem. As a result, nearly half of West African cocoa farmers live below the poverty line. With gaps in resources, knowledge, and technology to manage their farms more systematically, active renewal and investment remains limited, preventing farmers from realizing the productive potential of their land and perpetuating a cycle of low incomes.

Our pilot combines phased input support with agronomy trainings and coaching. Pruning reduces pest and diseases, composting and inputs provide nutrients to the trees, and replanting with new varieties raises future yields. Incentives are tied to adoption milestones, ensuring farmers have both the motivation and the means to implement new practices. Sustainability and longevity are top of mind. Farmers are supported in accessing government extension resources and encouraged to work collectively, building on existing structures and reducing reliance on external support over time.

All practices are verified through in-person observations on every farm. Results are compared against a baseline to ensure trainings drive real change in farm management and yields.