Fifteen cocoa farmers from Fumso Ketewa from a cocoa growing community in Ghana’s Ashanti Region recently embarked on a journey that would forever change their perspective on the fruits of their labour. Through Nestlé’s initiative, these farmers spent a day touring the company’s factory at Tema—witnessing firsthand how the cocoa beans they grow are transformed into globally beloved products like MILO®.
For the farmers, the experience was both humbling and inspiring. Anthony Owusu, a farmer, spoke with admiration after the visit. “This is the first time I have seen how cocoa from our farms ends up in MILO®. I am taking this knowledge back to my community so other farmers can understand the value of what we produce,” he shared. His words reflected a newfound appreciation for the vital role farmers play in the worldwide cocoa supply chain.
The sense of pride was echoed by fellow farmer Thomas Oduro. “When I first entered the factory, I thought I was in the wrong place. But after the tour, I felt at home and overly impressed. Today, I feel overjoyed and confident about the role we farmers play in creating these world-class products,” he said, his enthusiasm unmistakable.
Nestlé Ghana’s Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Manager, Deborah Kwablah, underscored the company’s deep commitment to these communities. “We train farmers in the right agronomic practices so they can increase yields and improve their livelihoods. When they get better returns from their land, Nestlé also benefits by securing the cocoa we need for our products. That is why we call it shared value; it’s about creating opportunities for both the farmer and the business,” she explained.
So far this year, Nestlé through it partners has invested in infrastructure, commissioning 15 boreholes and four schools, with ongoing projects aimed at improving education, sanitation and access to clean water in cocoa-growing communities. These efforts demonstrate that the company’s relationship with farmers is built on more than just businesses; it is about nurturing sustainable, resilient communities.
The visiting farmers returned home not only with new knowledge but also with a profound sense of pride in their contribution to products cherished worldwide. Nestlé Ghana hopes to make the factory visit an annual tradition, continuing to empower farmers and ensure a sustainable future for Ghana’s cocoa industry.
As Ghana joins the global community to celebrate Cocoa Day, we highlight the contributions of cocoa farmers and their efforts to promote sustainable practices that benefit both the farmers and industry. Together, we celebrate stories, traditions, and futures that this vital crop supports.
Source: ameyawdebrah.com/
