3,500 farmers get N150m from WACOT for sustainable cocoa production

Over 3,500 Cocoa farmers, cutting across 28 communities in Osun State, have been awarded over N150m sustainability differential payment in recognition of their dedication to sustainable cocoa production. Each of the farmers got N45, 000.

The gesture, courtesy of WACOT Limited, a subsidiary of Tropical General Investments (TGI) Group, was awarded in addition to payments made for the cocoa delivered to WACOT as part of the sustainable cocoa initiative.

According to WACOT, the recognition highlights the superior quality of cocoa produced by the farmers, which exceeds international sustainable cocoa production standards. These standards include the exclusion of child or forced labour, responsible use of fertilisers and pesticides, proper tree care, and the preservation of protected reserves.

The special quality bonus was distributed at the Cocoa Sustainability Differential (payment) award held in Balogun Community, Ile-Ife, Osun State.

During the event, the Head, Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability – TGI Group, Yosola Onanuga, who expressed gratitude to the farmers for their commitment to sustainable farming practices, said sustainability is a core value at TGI, which is deeply embedded in their operational strategies.

“We thank the community for their unwavering support and dedication to improving sustainable practices in cocoa cultivation, from harvesting to fermentation and at every stage of the value chain.”

Member of Osun State House of Assembly, representing Ife Central Constituency and Chairman of the House Committee on Youths, Sports, and Special Needs, Abiola Awoyeye, highlighted the importance of WACOT’s contributions, stating they “are crucial to the development of our agricultural economy. The company provides essential tools and training to help farmers enhance the quality of their cocoa produce, which is vital to Osun State. We are grateful to TGI and WACOT from their support to the state.”

One of the beneficiaries, Fawole Christianah, expressed gratitude towards the good work and impact WACOT has had in their communities.

“Before I became a member of the initiative, my yield was low and I couldn’t sell enough to provide for my family, and it’s the same story for a lot of us. But that’s not our story today. I can boldly say we are doing better than we could ever imagine. I have not heard of other companies paying farmers extra for doing the right thing. We are grateful for all WACOT has done for us. The firm’s substantial funding is part of its corporate responsibility and sustainability approach, which is founded on respect for people and the betterment of the communities it operates in.”

TGI’s sustainability programmes involve a structured approach to outgrower farming initiatives, covering various value chains, including cocoa, cotton, rice, and sesame. The programme includes registering smallholder farming groups and cooperatives, providing easy access to quality agro-inputs, offering training on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Yield Enhancement Techniques (YET), and purchasing produce at prevailing market prices with immediate cash payments.