High Level analysis of recent and current yield in the West African cocoa sector : Trends, possible causes and recommendations for interventions

Despite being the world’s leading cocoa producers, the sectors in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire face persistent challenges that threaten their long-term sustainability. While production has steadily increased, the majority of cocoa farming households continue to struggle with low productivity, low incomes, and limited access to essential services among others. Systematic issues, compounded by the effects of climate change, continue to undermine cocoa sector productivity and profitability. The 2023/2024 season, marked by unprecedented price volatility and severe weather conditions, further highlighted the fragility of the sector. Immediate financial and input support can help to address the reported 2023/24 revenue losses, while systematic reforms have a potential to work towards improved wider sector resilience.