São Tomé and Príncipe is stepping up efforts to safeguard its cocoa sector through a sustainability initiative designed to protect forests and improve farmer livelihoods. The island nation, where cocoa is central to the economy, has faced mounting pressure from land degradation, deforestation, and climate change.
Linking Cocoa Farming with Forest Protection
According to Faustino Oliveira, a project coordinator with the FAO, the health of cocoa production depends heavily on thriving forests.
“Cocoa requires shade and tall trees to grow well,” Oliveira explained. “Our program supports cooperatives in restoring degraded land by planting trees and introducing better farming methods.”
Empowering Local Farmers
The initiative, backed by the government and UN partners, is training farmers to adopt more sustainable practices.
Local cocoa farmer Dodamin Semedo Correia highlighted the benefits:
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Improved financial management skills
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Better crop management techniques
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Greater stability for household income
Broad Impact Across Communities
So far, the program has reached more than 37 producer cooperatives and directly benefited over 2,000 families. Farmers are receiving tools, training, and technical assistance to ensure that cocoa farming remains both profitable and environmentally friendly.
By combining conservation with economic opportunity, São Tomé aims to secure the future of its cocoa industry while protecting vital ecosystems.
