The second edition of "Café du Développement", an initiative by the Network of Media Actors for Development (RMD), took place in Abidjan on October 30, 2026. The conference concluded with the signing of a declaration against the hardship and hazardous work of children in cocoa farming. This significant act demonstrates the commitment of all participants to unite their efforts, accelerate prevention actions, and ensure the social sustainability of Côte d'Ivoire's cocoa industry.
The conference, which brought together institutional actors, civil society organizations, sectoral experts, and media professionals, focused on combating the strenuous and hazardous work faced by children in the cocoa sector. The event featured a performance of the "Hymn Against Child Labor", written by RMD President Hervé Gobou and performed by the Supers Héros d'Angré Château group. This performance conveyed a message of hope and cultural awareness.
In his opening speech, Hervé Gobou emphasized that the primary objective of "Café du Développement" is to raise awareness about the issue of child labor in cocoa farming. He noted that this problem, although real, is often overlooked and requires national attention to ensure the sustainability of Côte d'Ivoire's cocoa industry. The conference received support from key organizations, including the EFG Foundation, Kouyo Foundation, and International Cocoa Initiative (ICI).
The "Café du Développement" serves as a platform for reflection and advocacy, bringing together various stakeholders to address pressing issues. This edition's focus on child labor in cocoa farming highlighted the need for collective action to prevent and eliminate hazardous work. Participants acknowledged the importance of protecting children from exploitation and ensuring a safe and healthy working environment.
Côte d'Ivoire is the world's largest producer of cocoa, and the industry plays a vital role in the country's economy. However, the sector has faced criticism for its labor practices, particularly regarding child labor. The declaration signed during the conference demonstrates the commitment of RMD and its partners to promoting responsible and sustainable cocoa production.
The event showcased the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including civil society organizations, media professionals, and institutional actors. The participation of organizations like the EFG Foundation, Kouyo Foundation, and ICI underscores the importance of partnerships in addressing complex issues like child labor. The conference provided a platform for knowledge sharing, expertise, and experiences.
The signed declaration is expected to have a lasting impact on the cocoa industry, as it brings together stakeholders to address the root causes of child labor. By working together, participants aim to create a safer and more sustainable environment for children and cocoa farmers. The RMD's initiative demonstrates the power of collaboration in driving positive change.
Key points
- Côte d'Ivoire's cocoa industry has faced criticism for its labor practices, particularly regarding child labor.
