Concerns are rising among Cote d'Ivoire cocoa farmers as a dry spell threatens to impact the quality and yield of the upcoming harvest, according to Western media reports.
The world's leading cocoa producer is currently experiencing its dry season (mid-November to March), but last week's lack of rainfall in key cocoa-growing regions has sparked worries about the main crop (October-March) and the subsequent mid-crop (April-September).
Farmers in the Daloa, Bongouanou, and Yamoussoukro regions reported no rainfall whatsoever last week, levels significantly below the five-year average. This lack of moisture, they fear, could damage bean quality and lead to reduced yields starting in February.
While sufficient pods remain for January harvesting, the ongoing drought could negatively affect the main crop's final stages and the crucial early development of the mid-crop.
Farmers plan to closely monitor conditions throughout January, emphasizing the need for regular rainfall every 10 days to stimulate flowering and pod development for a strong mid-crop beginning in April.