Barry Callebaut has educated 3,000 cocoa farmers across 60 communities in Ondo, Osun, Ogun, and Cross River States on child labor and sustainable farming. The company plans to cover its supply chain with Human Rights Due Diligence by 2025. The program, held in various towns, also addressed the impact of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) on cocoa farming, encouraging sustainable practices to combat deforestation and climate change. Barry Callebaut is committed to empowering farming communities and ensuring a sustainable cocoa supply chain by 2030. Source: BusinessDay
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Barry Callebaut’s initiative to educate 3,000 cocoa farmers in Nigeria on child labor and sustainability is a pivotal step towards a more ethical and sustainable cocoa industry. By addressing child labor through Human Rights Due Diligence (HRDD) and promoting agroforestry, the company aligns with the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). This approach not only improves the social and environmental standards within the cocoa supply chain but also enhances the livelihoods of farming communities. For the value chain, this initiative ensures a more transparent and responsible sourcing process, which can attract global buyers increasingly focused on sustainability. It empowers farmers with knowledge and practices that can lead to higher yields and better market prices, fostering economic growth. The community-based approach strengthens local economies and promotes education, leading to long-term benefits for the regions involved.
Overall, these efforts support informed decision-making, enhance Nigeria’s reputation in the global cocoa market, and encourage the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, contributing to the sector’s overall growth.
