Indonesian cocoa farmers are partnering with businesses to address climate change impacts on their crops, which have driven cocoa prices to record levels. Techniques to enhance cocoa farming, financial training, and cooperative efforts are being implemented to improve farmers’ livelihoods. Despite challenges such as shifting crop preferences and loan accessibility, collaborations offer potential for revitalizing cocoa production in Indonesia.
Cocoa farmers in Indonesia are collaborating with businesses and organizations to combat the adverse effects of climate change and underinvestment, which have significantly impacted cocoa prices. The production of cocoa is particularly sensitive to environmental conditions and requires specific combinations of temperature and humidity. Farmers are now experiencing rising challenges due to climate change, including reduced yields from hotter weather and increased disease from varying rainfall patterns.
As cocoa prices soared nearly threefold to approximately US$12,000 per ton in 2024, many farmers are opting to cultivate different crops, exacerbating the decline in cocoa production. Indonesia ranks as the third-largest cocoa producer globally, and various stakeholders are uniting to refine farming practices and enhance farmer livelihoods.
In South Sumatra, farmer Tari Santoso is partnering with Indonesian chocolate company Krakakoa to optimize his cocoa farm practices. Since 2016, he has adopted methods such as regular pruning, grafting, and utilizing organic fertilizers, promoting a healthier ecosystem by integrating diverse crops like bananas and coffee.
Krakakoa has trained over 1,000 cocoa farmers and provides both education and financial assistance. The formation of cooperatives allows for access to low-interest loans, fostering community support for farmers. Collaboration with businesses enables farmers to secure loans from government banks by providing collateral through guaranteed buyer agreements.
Additional collaborations involve public-private partnerships, improving farmers’ climate resilience through innovation, such as developing high-yield cocoa variants. Nonetheless, challenges persist, including the perception of cocoa farming as less profitable, compelling farmers to pursue alternatives like palm oil. Continued engagement is necessary to enhance cocoa’s attractiveness in the agricultural sector and ensure financial accessibility for all smallholder farmers.
In summary, Indonesian cocoa farmers are proactively working alongside businesses and organizations to mitigate the impacts of climate change that threaten cocoa production. Successful partnerships have led to improved farming practices, financial support, and cooperative structures. Although significant challenges remain, ongoing collaboration presents opportunities for revitalizing the cocoa sector and ensuring its sustainability for future generations.
Original Source: www.local10.com
