Stakeholders drive deforestation-free cocoa production in Ondo

Stakeholders in cocoa industry, have emphasised the deforestation-free cocoa production could only be achieved through tangible actions including traceability systems, farmer training, and climate-smart agricultural practices.

This was said at a workshop held on Thursday in Akure, Ondo State, in partnership with World Cocoa Foundation, Palladium and Johnvents Group to commence the beginning of the Deforestation-Free Cocoa Initiative (DFCI), which is a pivotal step towards preserving Nigeria’s forest cover and revitalising cocoa farming practices.

Coffie Mawuli, the country director of World Cocoa Foundation, while speaking during the workshop explained that with over 60 percent of forest cover lost in Cross River and Ondo States over two decades, there is urgency need for change.

Mawuli, who disclosed that the workshop was the first phase of the Deforestation-Free Cocoa Initiative (DFCI) in Ondo State, however, noted that companies must actively drive change by adopting traceability systems, investing in farmer education, and supporting community-based initiatives that foster sustainable farming.

According to him, achieving deforestation-free cocoa farming is beyond policy dialogue; but requires firm commitment and tangible contributions from cocoa processors.

He said; “individual companies must invest in sustainability through traceability systems, farmer training, or community initiatives.”

“Companies can make a lasting difference by helping establish community resource centres, distributing improved cocoa seedlings and shade trees, and equipping farmers with the knowledge to adopt climate-smart practices.”

Mawuli, who referred to Johnvents Group as a key player in the sector, explained that processors like Johnvents could take further step by integrating its traceability systems with national frameworks and ensuring its deforestation-free commitments link directly to the broader Deforestation-Free Cocoa Initiative (DFCI).

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According to him, while processors hold a central position in driving sustainable change, meaningful progress could only be achieved through coordinated and inclusive efforts.

While Caroline Omotosho, managing director, Johnvents Industries and Bamikole Sunday, managing director, Premium Cocoa Products Limited, Ile Oluji, Johnvents Group, reaffirmed the companies contributions towards sourcing responsible cocoa.

Omotosho noted that the group’s ongoing efforts align closely with the overarching objectives of the Deforestation-Free Cocoa Initiative (DFCI), which focuses on mitigating deforestation while safeguarding the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.

She highlighted Johnvents Industries proactive stance, saying “In 2022, we launched our cocoa sustainability programme: ‘Nourished Crop, Better Farmer’ to align with the core principles of the Rainforest Alliance.

“Our mission is to enhance farmer livelihoods, uphold workers rights, preserve biodiversity, and combat climate change. Over the next decade, we aim to empower 150,000 farmers and restore 300,000 hectares of degraded farmland, ensuring long-term resilience and sustainability in the cocoa industry.

“Our sustainability initiative is designed to comply with international benchmarks while directly improving farmers economic well-being.

“Through transparent tracking, we provide consumers and partners with the assurance that our certified cocoa is ethically sourced, with zero contribution to deforestation,” Omotosho said.

BusinessDay reports that among key recommendations of the stakeholders at the workshop include the importance of rehabilitating moribund farms, establishing tree-based farm boundaries, and expanding regenerative agricultural practices.