Established in 2009 in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, the Kookoo Pa Farmers’ Organisation has grown into a leading force for sustainable agriculture. With the support of the Trade for Development Centre (TDC) of Enabel, the organisation recently concluded a pivotal 12-month project designed to professionalise smallholder farmers and secure their access to international markets.
Kookoo Pa’s mission is rooted in improving the economic and social well-being of its members through the adoption of sustainable farming practices. Building on its history of growth—expanding from a pilot of 352 farmers to thousands across multiple districts—the organisation partnered with the TDC to implement the “Kookoo Pa UTZ Cocoa Certification Project” between November 2016 and November 2017.
The project aimed to integrate smallholder farmers in the Ashanti, Western, and Brong Ahafo regions into a sustainable trade framework, specifically targeting UTZ certification (now Rainforest Alliance) to boost productivity and incomes.
Exceeding Targets: A Model of Success
The primary objective was to register and certify 2,000 smallholder farmers. The project was a resounding success, exceeding this target by integrating 2,019 farmers (101% of the goal) into the Kookoo Pa Farmers’ Association.
These farmers—comprising 1,224 men and 795 women—successfully navigated the rigorous first-year UTZ certification processes, including internal inspections and external audits. By November 2017, the group had already commenced the production of certified cocoa for a client, unlocking the potential for price premiums and increased household revenue.
Building Capacity and Professionalism
Beyond certification, the project significantly enhanced the technical knowledge of the farming communities. Through the “Training of Trainers” model, 40 Community Level Facilitators (CLFs) were equipped to teach UTZ standards and Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs).
Consequently, all 2,019 participating farmers received comprehensive training covering:
- Farm establishment and soil fertility;
- Crop protection and post-harvest handling;
- Health, safety, and labour rights;
- Environmental conservation.
To ensure professional management, 40 Internal Inspectors and 40 Spray Service Providers (SSPs) were trained, with the latter receiving full sets of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs).
Modernisation through Technology
A crucial component of the project was the digitisation of farm data. Using GPS technology, Kookoo Pa successfully mapped 2,019 cocoa farm plots, covering over 2,180 hectares. This accurate mapping is vital for estimating yearly production and ensuring the precise application of agrochemicals, directly contributing to higher quality cocoa beans.
Empowerment and Governance
The project also strengthened community governance and gender equality. Structures were established in 40 selected communities, resulting in the election of 240 Community Executives.
Recognising the vital role of women in agriculture, Kookoo Pa facilitated the formation of 40 Women’s Groups with 184 elected executives. These groups are dedicated to fostering income-generating activities, increasing assertiveness, and raising awareness of rights among female farmers.
Looking Ahead
With the successful integration of these members, the sustainability of the initiative is assured. The community structures, trained facilitators, and certified status remain in place well beyond the project’s lifespan, ensuring that Kookoo Pa continues to serve as a model of a well-organised, effective farmer body in Ghana.
Project Details
- Project Title: Belgium Technical Corporation (BTC)/ Kookoo Pa Utz Cocoa Certification Project
- Duration: November 2016 – November 2017
- Location: Ashanti, Western, and Brong Ahafo Regions, Ghana
- TDC Contribution: €65,998.63
- Beneficiaries: 2,019 smallholder cocoa farmers and their households
