Abundant rainfall in Ivory Coast’s main cocoa-growing regions last week is boosting the upcoming crop.
Farmers reported improved conditions for the October-to-March main harvest during interviews on Monday.
The country, the world’s top cocoa producer, is currently experiencing its rainy season, which lasts from April to mid-November.
Farmers noted they are now able to harvest cocoa twice a month in October.
The main crop’s harvesting is expected to continue through November and December, reaching its peak in December.
Cooperative managers observed an increase in the flow of cocoa beans from the fields since the start of the month.
However, some buyers expressed concerns over the quality of the cocoa beans being delivered.
Reports indicate that certain shipments contained mouldy beans, raising alarms about potential quality issues.
Additionally, some cooperatives have encountered financing challenges due to rising prices of 1,800 CFA francs per kilogram, as farmers demand upfront payment.
In key regions like Soubre and Agboville, rainfall was significantly above average, which is encouraging for crop development.
Farmers and cooperative members predict that favorable weather will help the cocoa continue to develop well into January.
However, they also mentioned that heavy rains have damaged rural roads, delaying the transport of cocoa beans from plantations.
Kouassi Kouame, a farmer near Soubre, reported that many green pods in the plantations would ripen by December.
Meanwhile, in the west-central region of Daloa, sunny spells are anticipated to improve drying conditions and bean quality.
,Average temperatures across Ivory Coast ranged from 25.2 to 27.5 degrees Celsius, contributing to favorable growing conditions.
