Hershey has entered a five-year partnership with nine cocoa cooperatives in Côte d’Ivoire as part of its “Cocoa For Good” initiative, a decade-long, $500 million commitment to tackling the challenges facing cocoa farmers. This agreement aims to build stronger, long-term relationships with farmers, enhancing supply chain resilience and farmer livelihoods.
Announced during the annual National Cocoa and Chocolate Days in Abidjan, the agreement includes a memorandum of understanding between Hershey, Sucden, and the nine cooperatives. Key goals include:
- Supporting farmers in professionalizing cocoa farming and improving profitability
- Investing in community-based resources to enhance household well-being
- Promoting environmental preservation and strengthening farm resilience
The partnership establishes long-term collaboration, providing stability for farmers and a direct approach to addressing on-farm challenges.
“Improving farmer incomes requires a holistic approach and collaboration across public and private sectors,” said Tricia Brannigan, Hershey’s Vice President and Chief Procurement Officer. “Trust is built over time through strong, long-lasting relationships.”
Supporting resilient cocoa communities
The agreement aligns with Côte d’Ivoire’s National Strategy for Sustainable Cocoa, ensuring a coordinated approach to overcoming major issues in the country’s cocoa sector. Hershey’s investment is part of broader efforts to support cocoa farming communities, including a $40 million Income Accelerator program launched in 2023 and the construction of primary schools in partnership with local authorities and the International Cocoa Initiative.
To learn more about Hershey’s efforts to improve farmer incomes, prioritize child well-being, and protect the environment, visit their website.
