YFTAs Field Visit to Ghana: Insights from Cocoa-producing Communities

Ghana
26.01.2025 - 30.07.2025

Earlier this year, a group of Young Fair Trade Advocates (YFTAs) and the Fair Trade Advocacy Office (FTAO) visited cocoa-producing cooperatives in different regions of Ghana. The trip was a unique opportunity to learn from the deep knowledge and resilience of farming communities, gain a better understanding of their livelihoods and explore both the opportunities and challenges they face, from adapting to climate change to navigating new EU regulations.

With Europe importing 58% of the world's cocoa beans, the visit was particularly insightful, especially as farmers prepare for the new EU Deforestation Regulation that will significantly impact them. It became clear that more support, resources for agroforestry and community development are essential to help farmers adapt and sustain their businesses and livelihoods while playing a vital role in protecting the environment and tackling deforestation.