Climate change is hitting cocoa farmers hard, with heavier rainfall extending well into what should be the dry season. This unseasonal rain damages crops and makes it harder for farmers to get their harvest to the market, especially with poor road conditions getting worse due to flooding. On top of that, the cost of fertilizers is rising because the Naira is weakening, putting even more strain on farmers.
A great way to help with these problems is by providing free mulch to cocoa farmers. Mulch, made from roasted & winnowed cocoa shells from the Dùne chocolate factory, offers two major benefits. First, it acts as a protective layer for the soil, helping to prevent erosion caused by heavy rain. Erosion can wash away the topsoil, which is full of nutrients that crops need to grow well.
Second, cocoa shells make excellent organic fertilizer. As they break down, they release nutrients back into the soil, making it richer and better for growing healthy plants. This is especially helpful given the high cost of synthetic fertilizers.
Using cocoa shells as mulch helps farmers protect their crops from climate-related damage and improve soil health at the same time. This initiative not only supports better crop yields despite the challenges but also helps farmers manage their costs. It’s a sustainable practice that makes good use of by-products from chocolate making.
In a nutshell, providing free mulch is a smart, sustainable solution to help cocoa farmers cope with climate change and rising fertilizer costs. It helps protect their crops, improve soil health, and ensure that farmers can keep producing quality cocoa, which is good for everyone involved.
