The leaders of Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana have reiterated their commitment to fostering a sustainable cocoa economy, addressing global and environmental challenges head-on. During a high-level summit on the « Cocoa Initiative » held on June 16, 2026, President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d’Ivoire and President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana underscored the urgency of this shared vision.
Building a fair and resilient cocoa sector
President Ouattara emphasized that the future of the cocoa industry is pivotal for both nations, representing a cornerstone of economic sovereignty, social stability, and shared prosperity. « Together with my brother, President John Dramani Mahama, we reaffirm our commitment to building a just, thriving, and sustainable cocoa economy for Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, and all of Africa, » he declared.
The cocoa sector sustains millions of livelihoods across rural communities, generating vital income, creating jobs, and fueling development policies. While celebrating the progress achieved through the Cocoa Initiative, Ouattara acknowledged persistent hurdles, including price volatility, climate change impacts, and stricter international sustainability regulations. He advocated for the formation of a unified African coalition of cocoa-producing nations to amplify the continent’s voice in global industry governance.
Investing in growth and farmer support
President Mahama echoed the call for deeper investment in the cocoa value chain, stressing the need to equip farmers with the tools and resources required to sustain production. « Our priority is to empower farmers with everything they need to continue cultivating high-quality cocoa beans, » he stated. He also highlighted the importance of strengthening institutional ties between the two countries to bolster collaboration and resilience in the sector.
African cocoa’s global dominance
Together, Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana produce over 60% of the world’s cocoa supply, with Africa accounting for nearly 80% of global output. This dominance underscores the continent’s critical role in shaping the future of the industry, particularly as demand for ethically sourced and sustainable cocoa continues to rise.