This testimonial is part of the ‘ETA’s Cocoa Farmer Stories’ collection with farmers from the Bono region in Ghana. Contributing to our advocacy campaign “Equal Trade Chocolate Tastes Better” the Equal Trade team in Ghana visited Atroni, a town close to Sunyani in Ghana, to speak with cocoa farmers to share their real-life circumstances. The aim of this project is to create awareness among the general public about the living circumstances of cocoa farmers, add credibility to and legitimize the mission of the ETA and our campaign.
It’s early morning when we meet Osman, a farmhand – a worker on a farm – working steadily in the cocoa fields. The air is still cool, he greets us warmly, and we ask if he has the time for a conversation with us.
The cocoa tree life cycle
Our first attempt to record Osman’s story is interrupted by a passerby, but when we finally sit down to talk again, his deep knowledge of cocoa farming comes to the forefront. Osman speaks passionately about the cycle of the cocoa trees “It starts with planting, we have to keep the weeds under control so the cocoa plants can grow strong. After five years, the trees demand even more attention. We need to monitor them closely, they must get enough sunlight and good airflow between them. Otherwise, the cocoa tree’s growth will be disturbed. It is also important to check the health of the cocoa trees regularly, we are always on the lookout for the first signs of pesticides and diseases, as this can hardly affect our cocoa quality and yield.”
Making Ends Meet as a Farmhand
Osman’s knowledge about cocoa farming is impressive. As our conversation deepens, we ask Osman about his financial situation. ‘“A while ago I had an accident, which left me unable to work for months and I am still dealing with the financial consequences. I am grateful to be able to work again, I take on whatever farmhand job I can find which often makes me move from one task to another. It’s the only way to make ends meet, I have a family and I need to provide for my kids. My income is irregular and the work is very demanding. But I have no choice. Cocoa farming doesn’t offer much stability, especially for someone like me, who does not own a farm.” Osman explains.
Just when we are about to ask Osman about the differences between being a farm-owner and working on a farm, Osman apologizes and excuses himself, explaining that he must get back to work before the midday heat becomes unbearable.
Even though we weren’t able to get into more depth with Osman. Our brief conversations demonstrate once again that systematic change in trade policies are needed. How is it that Western sales employees at chocolateries are able to receive enough income to sustain their families, go on holidays, and save some money on the site, while at the root of the cocoa value chain, farmers that work hard every day, are not able to provide for their children?
The gap between farmers and chocolate companies is stark. How can the industry generate billions annually while farmers like Osman barely make enough to meet their basic needs, send their children to school, or invest in sustainable farming products? How many more years is it going to take to realize that we – as the consumers – might play a larger part of the problem than we believe? Advocate for change, advocate for Equal Trade.
The Equal Trade Alliance Certificate offers a solution. Join the Equal Trade Alliance, share your farmer story using the #equaltradecocoa and follow our socials.
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