"Unveiling the Scandal: Kuapa Kokoo, Fairtrade and Devine Chocolate

Kuapa Kokoo President’s Alleged Corruption Raises Questions for Fairtrade and Divine Chocolate Partnerships"

The recent allegations of financial malfeasance within Kuapa Kokoo, a cooperative union representing small-scale cocoa farmers in Ghana, have sent shockwaves through the cocoa industry. As a cooperative that upholds the principles of fair trade and sustainability, Kuapa Kokoo has forged partnerships with renowned organizations like Fairtrade and Divine Chocolate, attracting ethical buyers who believe in supporting farmers and promoting social justice. However, the accusations against the cooperative's leadership raise questions about the integrity of these partnerships and whether ethical buyers have unwittingly become pawns in a larger web of deception. In this article, we delve into the ethical standards upheld by Fairtrade and Divine Chocolate and shed light on how these allegations have left buyers feeling betrayed. We explore the implications of this controversy and ask critical questions about the role and responsibility of these international partners, urging a deeper examination of the practices that govern the cocoa industry.

KUAPA KOKOO:

Kuapa Kokoo is a cooperative union based in Ghana that represents small-scale cocoa farmers. Established in 1993, its mission is to empower cocoa farmers by providing them with a platform for collective negotiation of fair prices and improving their livelihoods. The cooperative adheres to fair trade principles and focuses on sustainable cocoa production.

Kuapa Kokoo has gained international recognition through partnerships with organizations committed to advancing social causes in the cocoa industry. One of its key international partners is Fairtrade, a global movement that promotes fair trading conditions and empowers farmers and workers in developing countries.

Another significant partner is Divine Chocolate, a UK-based company specialising in producing and selling Fairtrade chocolate. Kuapa Kokoo holds a majority stake in Divine Chocolate, allowing farmers to share in the company's profits and have a say in the chocolate industry's value chain. This unique partnership aims to ensure that farmers directly benefit from the company's success.

While these partnerships have been established to promote social and economic justice in the cocoa sector, recent allegations of financial malfeasance within Kuapa Kokoo raise questions about the motives and effectiveness of these international partners. The article prompts a critical examination of the role and responsibility of these partners in ensuring transparency, accountability, and fair practices within the cooperatives they collaborate with.

ALLEGATION OVERVIEW:

According to various news reports, the allegations against Fatima Ali, the president of Kuapa Kokoo, and some members of her management involve financial malfeasance and embezzlement. The reports provide details regarding the severity of the accusations.

In a report from GhanaWeb, it is mentioned that Fatima Ali appealed to nullify her suspension from Kuapa Kokoo, but the court rejected her appeal. This development adds weight to the allegations, suggesting substantial evidence supporting the claims of financial wrongdoing.

Another report from Daily Guide Networkstates that Fatima Ali was apprehended, indicating that legal action has been taken in response to the allegations. The specifics of the charges against her and the subsequent legal proceedings are not explicitly detailed in the available information.

Furthermore, a report from Modern Ghana emphasises the need for an investigation into the corrupt practices of certain officials within Kuapa Kokoo. While not directly implicating Fatima Ali, this report highlights broader concerns about corruption within the cooperative.

Additionally, a report from MyJoyOnline mentions that an acting managing director of Kuapa Kokoo was granted bail after being accused of embezzlement. While the report does not directly link this individual's case to Fatima Ali's alleged embezzlement, it raises further questions about the management and financial integrity of the cooperative.

Lastly, a report from Graphic Online informs us that four individuals were taken to court over allegations of misappropriating funds from the Kuapa Kokoo Farmers Union. While the direct connection to Fatima Ali is not explicitly stated, it points to a broader pattern of financial irregularities within the organisation.

During an interview on Kessben FM, aggrieved Kuapa Kokoo farmers highlighted various issues that signify centralised systems of governance, where power lies in the hands of a few individuals who collude at the expense of hardworking farmers.

The farmers mentioned that Madam Fatima assumed the position of head of Kuapa Kokoo in 2012, following the passing of the previous leader. Since then, the farmers have alleged that both the economic situation of the farmers and the corporation have progressively worsened. They accused her of not initiating any projects during her 11-year tenure and challenged her to present evidence to refute their claims. In my previous article on Fairtrade, I pointed out that the Fairtrade premium ($240/mt) was not adequately passed on to the farmers; less than 22% was distributed to them. Considering the absence of projects and actions, it raises questions about Fairtrade's response. Could Fairtrade and Devine Chocolate be held accountable as key buyers of Kuapa Cocoa's Fairtrade cocoa beans?