Partnership for deforestation-free Cocoa Supply Chains

Cocoa farming supports millions worldwide but is fraught with deforestation risks and threatened by climate change. This project in Ghana aims to transform these scenarios through innovative regenerative agriculture, including dynamic agroforestry and regenerative cocoa production. These practices align with the new EU regulations for deforestation-free cocoa production and promote gender and youth inclusion. By providing smallholder farmers with the knowledge and tools to adopt sustainable farming methods, the project aims to secure their access to international markets and ensure the long-term viability of their livelihoods. The project approach integrates capacity building for compliance with environmental and social standards, aiming for sustainable, equitable cocoa supply chains. Through local and international partnerships, the project aims to create a model of production that respects the planet and its people, setting a precedent for deforestation-free agriculture in Ghana.

Project data

Countries: Ghana
IKI funding: 800,000.00 €
Duration: 11/2024 till 10/2027
Status: open
Implementing organisation: Fairtrade Labelling Organizations International e.V.
Implementing Partner: Commerce Equitable Afrique (Fairtrade Africa)

Proforest Initiative Africa (PIGH)
Online: https://impact.fairtrade.net/map/projects/partnership-for-deforestation-free-cocoa-supply-chain-in-ghana

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State of implementation/results

The project aims to foster deforestation-free cocoa value chains in Ghana via regenerative agriculture.
It targets smallholder cocoa farmers, government institutions, local authorities and the cocoa industry.
Activities include: skills development on climate-smart agriculture, support to establish traceability systems, financial inclusion, gender equality and youth inclusion.
Project targets cover increased traceability of the cacoa value chain, improved productivity through climate-smart practices, enhanced income through financial strategies, and greater inclusion of women and youth in the production chain.
In February 2025, the project was officially launched in Kumasi in Ghana, with strong participation from cocoa producer organisations, community leaders, government agencies, and civil society partners.
Awareness-raising workshops were carried out in four districts, informing farmers about the European Union Deforestation Regulation, Human Rights and Environmental Due Diligence, and climate-smart cocoa farming.
Farms for rehabilitation measures and trainings have been identified.
The project is supporting the Ghana Cocoa Board in mapping farms not included in the national traceability system. This will strengthen Ghana’s cocoa traceability system and ensure compliance with European Union requirements.
To improve farmers’ incomes and resilience, Village Savings and Loan Associations were mobilised, providing access to small loans and savings opportunities.
Gender and youth inclusion are central: Business and entrepreneurship training for women and youth has started. In addition, leadership and organisational development trainings were held to strengthen producer organisations and encourage inclusive decision-making.

Latest Update:
12/2025