Understanding Sustainable Value Capture for Ghana’s Cocoa Farmers on the Cocoa-Chocolate Value Chain
My First Academic Publication!!!!
Dear Readers,
Today, I have something truly special to share with you – an academic paper that delves into the heart of cocoa farming and the global chocolate industry has been authored by myself and my good friend EMEFA AWUKU. While our usual Cocoa Diaries newsletter is all about opinion pieces and sweet cocoa stories, this time, we're bringing you a deep dive into the world of cocoa sustainability.
🌱 Title: "Understanding Sustainable Value Capture for Ghana’s Cocoa Farmers on the Cocoa-Chocolate Value Chain"
📚 Authors: Kwame Asamoah Kwarteng and Emefa Awuku
🔗 Access the full paper here (Open Access).
In the cocoa world, there's more than meets the eye. It's not just about the delectable chocolate bars or cocoa's rich history; it's about the very livelihoods of smallholder farmers who toil to bring us the cocoa beans that make those bars possible.
Our paper highlights these unsung heroes - the cocoa farmers - and their quest for sustainable livelihoods. We ask the tough questions in a world where cocoa farming can be a path out of poverty. What challenges do these farmers face? What's holding back their income potential? And how can we, as cocoa lovers, make a positive impact?
We believe that understanding these dynamics is critical to creating lasting change, not just in Ghana but for cocoa farmers across the globe. It's about more than just enjoying the taste of cocoa; it's about ensuring those cultivating it can live better lives.
Through this academic journey, we explore the intricate web of local and international interests that affect cocoa farmers' lives. We dig into power imbalances and the complex networks of cocoa production. And most importantly, we propose solutions - like the idea of de-commodifying cocoa beans - that could reshape the industry and empower farmers.
But this isn't just an academic exercise. It's a call to action. We want to spread our capacity to make an impact, and we need your help. By reading and sharing our paper and supporting the cocoa diaries with your generous paid subscription, you're joining us on a mission to effect change for smallholder cocoa farmers worldwide.
So, brew a cup of your favourite cocoa, cosy up, and dive into cocoa sustainability with us. Let's be the change-makers who sweeten the lives of those who make our chocolate dreams possible.
Thank you for your continued support, and together, let's make cocoa not only delicious but also genuinely sustainable.
Sincerely,
Kwame Asamoah Kwarteng
The Cocoa Farmer’s Son