How is the Cocoa & Forests Initiative coping through the COVID crisis?

Although the crisis has slowed down the pace, it has not put a stop to the initiative. The CFI Secretariat and working groups are continuing to work online. Meetings are now happening through calls and documents are commented on through email consultations.

In May, online workshops are being organized to review progress and challenges of CFI and define targets and activities for beyond 2020. Steering Committee and Oversight Committee meetings will be organized before summer so that the plans can be reviewed and validated.

CFI signatories are also concerned about the impact of the crisis on farmers and their families and have taken measures to curb the spread of the virus. Many companies are using their existing networks or tools to reach out to farmers and communicate on the necessary safety and sanitation measures. The Conseil du Café-Cacao and COCOBOD have also coordinated the donation of hygiene material to cooperatives and farmers.