For years, African cocoa farmers have remained the unsung heroes of the global chocolate industry—producing 70% of the world’s cocoa yet struggling with low incomes, poor policies, and unfair trade practices.
But on February 12, 2025, history was made in Ibadan, Nigeria, as farmers, industry leaders, and policymakers gathered for the official launch of the Cocoa Farmers Alliance Association of Africa (COFAAA)—a bold initiative designed to unite, empower, and transform the fortunes of cocoa farmers across the continent.
At the heart of this movement is Comrade Adeola Adegoke, National President of the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria (CFAN) and now Global Coordinator of COFAAA.
In his powerful opening address, Adegoke declared that the days of exploitation and farmer neglect are over.
“COFAAA is a movement that will give African cocoa farmers the power, voice, and prosperity they deserve,” he said. “For too long, we have labored while others reap the rewards. Today, we take control of our destiny.”
Adegoke outlined COFAAA’s ambitious goals, including, Fair pricing and better trade policies to ensure farmers earn what they deserve, innovations in sustainable farming to increase productivity and profitability and stronger partnerships and industry reforms to uplift cocoa farmers across Africa.
He highlighted Nigeria’s current cocoa yield of 300-450kg per hectare, calling for increased investment in better practices and technology to boost productivity.
The event drew overwhelming support from key industry stakeholders, including, Otunba Felix Oladunjoye, President of the Cocoa Processors Association of Nigeria (COPAN), who called for policy reforms and fairer export regulations to strengthen local processing industries.
Another supporter, Mr. Nene Akwerty, Chief of Party, USDA-LWR Trace Project, praised COFAAA’s commitment to sustainability and farmer empowerment.
Alhaji Wasiu Adebayo, representing the Cocoa Association of Nigeria (CAN) President, reaffirmed CAN’s dedication to improving cocoa farmers’ welfare.
Hon. Olagunju, Chairman of Oyo State House of Assembly Committee on Agriculture, who assured farmers of government policies to protect their investments.
One of the most defining moments of the event was the official launch of COFAAA membership registration, led by Hon. Olagunju. Cocoa farmers from different states eagerly signed up, symbolizing their commitment to a new era of prosperity.
“This is not just about membership—this is a revolution. COFAAA will ensure that African cocoa farmers are no longer sidelined but become major players in the global industry,” Adegoke affirmed.
With COFAAA now leading the charge, African cocoa farmers are stepping out of the shadows—no longer just producers, but key decision-makers in the global cocoa trade.
The launch event set the stage for a transformed industry where farmers will dictate the terms, demand fairness, and secure a brighter future for generations to come.