Cocoa farmers rejoice as rains boost mid-crop hopes in Ivory Coast
- Recent strong rains across Ivory Coast's central regions improved growing conditions for cocoa trees.
- Farmers expressed relief and optimism following the rains, which help young pods survive.
- With more rain expected in March, farmers believe the mid-crop could match last season's yield.
Ivory Coast, being the world’s largest producer of cocoa, recently experienced strong rains across its central regions, which have significantly improved growing conditions for cocoa trees. Farmers reported that the rains raised hopes for a healthy April-to-September mid-crop, especially after a dry season that lasted from mid-November to March. Many farmers had initially been concerned about the effects of hot weather on the cocoa trees, fearing delays in the mid-crop season and a potential tightening of bean supply. The rainfall, which was recorded above average in certain areas, provided necessary moisture essential for the survival of young cocoa pods. For instance, significant rain fell near Yamoussoukro, where 18.2 millimeters of rainfall was noted, exceeding the five-year average by 11.3 millimeters. In other central regions like Bongouanou and areas of Daloa, though rains were mixed with below-average levels, the overall moisture was stated to be sufficient to benefit cocoa trees. Farmers in regions where rainfall was below average expressed optimism as well, highlighting that conditions remained favorable for the tree's growth and the formation of cherelles turning into small pods. Cocoa farmers were unanimous in their hope that regular rainfall could materialize from March onwards, positing that this would lead to a mid-crop yield akin to the previous season. Kouassi Kouame, a farmer from Soubre, emphasized that good rains starting in March would provide sufficient beans for the upcoming mid-crop. Meanwhile, the temperature across Ivory Coast remained relatively warm, ranging between 27.8 and 33.2 degrees Celsius. Overall, the recent heavy rainfall has brought a much-needed boost of hope to farmers in Ivory Coast, who depend on favorable growing conditions for a successful cocoa yield. Should the rains continue as anticipated, the cocoa industry in the region stands to benefit significantly, potentially alleviating concerns regarding future supply constraints.