Farmer training program
Engagement with farmers is a key pillar of the Nestlé Cocoa Plan. Access to training and learning resources are integral for helping communities thrive.
We work directly with farmers, running community groups to address gaps in their knowledge on a wide range of subjects – from the safe handling of agrochemicals to child labor risks.
With their active participation in these schemes, we’re able to help improve safety, health and livelihoods for farmers and their families.
Meet Kwame Hanson
Kwame is a farmer from [Country]. He started growing cocoa about a decade ago and it is now his primary source of income. In total, he has four acres of land that he cultivates to support his wife and two children.
Before joining the Nestlé Cocoa Plan, Kwame used to sell his cocoa beans to other companies operating in the area. Since joining the Nestlé Cocoa Plan, we’ve been able to provide Kwame with training on a number of topics, including good agronomic practices on his cocoa farm and the dangers of agrochemicals.
Raising awareness about agrochemical hazards
“I remember previously how I used to follow sprayers working on my farm without personal protective equipment. I did not know I was gradually poisoning my system until I joined this group. Now I know how to protect myself.”
– Kwame Hanson
Agrochemicals such as synthetic fertilizers and pesticides can be harmful if used incorrectly. Many farmers are unaware of the risks to their health, as was the case for Kwame. As part of the Nestlé Cocoa Plan, he joined a group teaching farmers how to handle chemicals safely.
“I didn’t know the potential threat to myself and my family.”
– Kwame Hanson
While the Nestlé Cocoa Plan is promoting the use of positive agricultural practices, many farmers like Kwame still rely on agrochemicals to prevent pests and disease. As we help cocoa growers transition to more sustainable methods, it’s important we help them adopt safe farming practices.
Opening eyes to child labor risks
“The training reminded me of what I went through in my childhood days. Little did I realise then that I was in hard labour as a child.”
– Kwame Hanson
Child labour risk is a difficult subject to broach, but engaging with communities about these issues is an important step in reducing it. For Kwame, his training on child labour and protection has been an eye-opener. He now has a better understanding of the issues of surrounding child labor.
“I sincerely think nobody should go through such an experience. I have vowed that none of my household would go through such an ordeal.”
– Kwame Hanson
Rewarding farming
“To me, Cocoa is just like a human being who needs to be properly taken care of...”
– Kwame Hanson
According to Kwame, his association in the Nestlé Cocoa Plan goes beyond farming. He has been able to benefit the knowledge and understanding gained from our training initiatives. The results can be seen on his farm.
“My adherence to timely agronomic practices such as pruning and shade control has increased the resilience of my farm during dry seasons.”
There are more stories like Kwame’s to discover on our Stories page.