Cocoa research in Côte d'Ivoire

Researchers in Côte d'Ivoire are working to create a cocoa variety that can better withstand the effects of climate change. This effort is driven by the growing challenges faced by cocoa farmers, who have seen their crops suffer from prolonged dry spells and reduced rainfall.

Cocoa's water needs and climate shifts

Cocoa trees require between 1,200 to 2,000 millimeters of annual rainfall, but in recent decades, rainfall in the region has dropped to an average of 1,100 millimeters. This decline has been particularly noticeable since the 1980s, prompting scientists to develop drought-resistant cocoa varieties.

Testing new cocoa varieties

Scientists at the National Agronomic Research Center (CNRA) have developed 11 varieties of cocoa that show promise in resisting water stress. These varieties are currently being tested in greenhouses and on farms, with the long-term goal of commercializing them. However, the research process is slow and costly.

Challenges in drought resistance

Geneticist Caudou Trebissou notes that while the new varieties can survive drought conditions, they often experience reduced flowering or altered growth patterns. These changes lead to fewer fruits and can impact overall yield. Additionally, dry conditions reduce soil fertility, making it harder for plants to access essential minerals.

Farmers' struggles and adaptations

Farmers like Anselme Kouakou have seen their cocoa trees weaken, with symptoms such as dry branches, folded leaves, and fewer pods. Kouakou estimates he has lost millions of CFA francs due to these conditions. In response, some farmers, including Koffi Alexis Amani, have turned to agroforestry, planting shade-providing trees like cashew, iroko, and banana alongside cocoa.

Agroforestry's potential benefits

Agroforestry can help extend the lifespan of drought-resistant cocoa varieties. In such systems, cocoa trees may live up to 25 years, compared to five to ten years in traditional farming. This method also offers better irrigation and shade, potentially improving resilience against climate change.

Côte d'Ivoire's global cocoa role

Côte d'Ivoire is the world’s largest producer of cocoa, supplying 40 percent of the global market and contributing 15 percent to the country’s GDP. The industry supports about five million people, directly and indirectly, and is a major export to Europe, which accounts for 70 percent of the country’s cocoa sales.

Climate projections and government response

Studies predict worsening climate conditions in Côte d'Ivoire over the next few decades, including more extreme weather and seasonal instability. Temperatures have already risen by 1°C since 1991, and could increase by 1.7°C to 3.7°C by 2080. The government warns that without action, cocoa production could drop by 20 percent by 2050. In response, the State has announced the creation of a new research institute in Divo dedicated to studying cocoa and coffee.