The government of Côte d'Ivoire has adopted a plan to establish the Institute for Coffee and Cocoa (I2C), a state-of-the-art research center aimed at strengthening the competitiveness of the country's coffee and cocoa industries. This decision was made during a cabinet meeting held in Abidjan on September 23, 2026. The initiative is led by the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food Production, in collaboration with relevant ministries.
The I2C is designed as an integrated platform that combines modern infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, highly qualified human resources, and a scientific cooperation network comprising national universities, regional centers of excellence, and international organizations. According to Amadou Coulibaly, the government's spokesperson, the institute's primary mission is to regain scientific leadership in coffee and cocoa research, effectively addressing competitiveness challenges and meeting global market standards.
The new research complex will be built on the site of the Divo station of the National Center for Agricultural Research (CNRA), which boasts an impressive biological heritage, including mature experimental plots of coffee and cocoa. This strategic location is expected to enhance the institute's research capabilities. The I2C will focus on applied scientific research, with the goal of increasing crop productivity while developing more disease-resistant and climate-resilient varieties.
The creation of the I2C is part of the government's efforts to improve the country's agricultural sector, particularly in the coffee and cocoa industries, which are significant contributors to Côte d'Ivoire's economy. By enhancing research and development in these areas, the government aims to increase the competitiveness of Ivorian coffee and cocoa in the global market.
Amadou Coulibaly emphasized that the institute will play a crucial role in improving the productivity and quality of coffee and cocoa crops, as well as their resistance to diseases and climate change. This, he noted, will have a positive impact on the country's agricultural production and economy.
The I2C's establishment is expected to have a positive impact on the livelihoods of farmers and the overall economy of Côte d'Ivoire. By developing more resilient and productive coffee and cocoa varieties, the institute can help increase farmers' yields and incomes, contributing to the country's economic growth and development.
The government has expressed its commitment to supporting the I2C and ensuring its success. With its focus on research and innovation, the institute is poised to become a key player in the country's agricultural sector, driving growth and competitiveness in the coffee and cocoa industries.
Key points
- The Institute for Coffee and Cocoa will focus on applied scientific research to improve crop productivity and develop more disease-resistant and climate-resilient varieties.
