Cocoa farmers in Ivory Coast are optimistic about a strong mid-crop season as consistent rains continue to boost pod development in key growing regions ahead of the main harvest in August.
Farmers across the country reported that the balance of rain and sunshine, combined with improved weather conditions, helped cocoa trees produce plenty of small and medium-sized pods. A strong finish is expected to the mid-crop season from April to September, coinciding with the country’s official rainy season that lasts until mid-November.
“We’ve had plenty of sun and rain. It’s very good for cocoa trees,” said Julien Kouassi, a farmer near Divo in the south. Rainfall above the five-year average was recorded last week.
Similar weather conditions were observed in other major cocoa regions, including Soubre and Abengourou in the west and east respectively, and Agboville in the south. Farmers welcomed the occasional sunny spells, citing their importance in reducing the risk of pests and diseases caused by excessive humidity.
Harvesting remains active in many areas, with farmers expecting pods to continue to ripen until the end of June.
In central and western regions such as Daloa, Bongouanou and Yamoussoukro, farmers are predicting a strong harvest in August if current rainfall levels continue. In Yamoussoukro alone, 40.4 mm of rain fell last week, 12.2 mm above average.
“Rains are becoming more regular. We are hoping for a bountiful harvest from August onwards,” said local farmer Isidore Koffi.
The crop outlook in Ivory Coast, the world’s largest cocoa producer, is being closely watched by global markets, and this season’s favourable weather is a welcome sign for both farmers and traders.