Cargill to expand Farmer Field Schools programme

Cargill Cocoa & Chocolate has committed to doubling the number of Farmer Field Schools it operates in Cote d’Ivoire to 300 by mid-2010.

The company will start by launching another 82 schools this month, building on the 150 already established. The overall program will train 10,000 farmers by the end of the year.

“Providing training and support enables farmers to increase yields, improve quality and, through these ” most importantly ” to increase their incomes,” says Harold Poelma, Cargill’s managing director. “By raising awareness of the environment, health and social issues, our program is also helping local farming families and communities.”

During the 10-month Farmer Field School program, farmers are trained in good and safe practices, focusing on farming techniques and post-harvest activities such as pruning, plantation renewal and cocoa fermentation methods. In addition, the program also stressed broader social aspects such as the importance of ensuring children’s education and HIV awareness. The program also enables co-operatives to become UTZ Certified.