TogetHER

Project Summary

Given the increased vulnerability of cocoa-growing communities to economic shocks and climate change, the Initiative for Women and Cocoa Communities (TogetHER) project, led by Socodevi, strengthens the resilience of cocoa-growing families through technical assistance, the establishment of agroforestry systems and innovative agricultural risk management mechanisms. Project activities also promote collective savings, entrepreneurship and financial inclusion, while contributing to the long-term resilience of the cocoa sector and the equitable distribution of economic benefits and opportunities.

Objectives

  • Empower women and youth to foster the sustainable development of cocoa-growing communities.
  • Improve their financial and economic autonomy.
  • Strengthen the performance of local stakeholders in delivering appropriate, gender-responsive and climate-resilient products and services.

Results and impact

  • 150 VSLAs were created or supported, 3,860 members received financial literacy training, and 57 groups are now eligible for the Biakoye Fund.
  • Co-operative engagement increased by 25%, driven by Socodevi’s training on co-operative development, strengthening members’ sense of belonging within the cocoa value chain.
  • All co-operatives have begun diversifying their economic activities to increase their revenues, with a focus on business-oriented planning.
  • 56 Department of Co-operatives (DOCs) employees and 20 COCOBOD employees received training; two gender units are now operational within COCOBOD.
  • Women now hold 50% of seats on boards of directors, enabling them to influence strategic decisions.
  • Each of the 15 co-operatives now has a dedicated workspace.
  • 15 business plans for income-generating activities are being implemented, and 3,636 members have received training through the Socodevi Field School.
  • Each organization has a staff member responsible for co-operative operations, trained to oversee administrative, logistical, programmatic and financial activities.
  • Members of the 62 Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) save an average of GHS 2,988,469.80, or approximately CAD $400, thanks to the project’s financial education strategies.
  • Five cocoa and shade tree nurseries have been established.

Testimonials

“When someone is part of a co-operative, it generally means they can provide for their family—and that is what we are observing.”

  • Mr. Eugene Asare
    Municipal Director of the Department of Cooperatives – Tepa

“Thanks to Socodevi’s support, we have 10 acres to grow maize. We received advice on climate-smart agriculture and good practices. So, even with the low rainfall in the region, our maize is growing well and we expect to harvest 120 to 150 bags (50 kg).”

  • Ms. Vida Boateng
    Vice-President of the Ntease Cooperative Union (Mabang Maize Farm, Ashanti)

Partners

  • Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA)
  • Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD)
  • Department of Co-Operatives (DOCs)

Media gallery

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