Rainfall in Ivory Coast's main cocoa-growing regions was below average last week, sparking concerns among farmers about the development of small pods due to be harvested next year. The country's rainy season, which typically runs from April to mid-November, has been marked by less than abundant rainfall so far. Farmers across the country expressed concerns about the conditions for the main crop, which is expected to be harvested from September to February.
A new wave of small pods, set to be harvested next year, is suffering from a lack of moisture, with some pods falling from the trees. Farmers warned that the situation could become alarming if dry weather persists until mid-October. Kouassi Kouame, a farmer near Soubre, stated that if rains do not become regular before mid-October, harvesting for the main crop will end in December. Similar conditions were reported by farmers in Agboville, Abengourou, and Divo.
Rainfall was sharply below average in Agboville and Abengourou, while no rain fell in Divo last week. Farmers in these regions reported that harvesting was expected to increase significantly from next week through December. However, they also expressed concerns about the quality of beans being harvested, citing overcast conditions that prevent the beans from drying properly.
In the west-central region of Daloa, where rainfall was also below average, farmers reported good rain early on Monday, raising hopes of more regular precipitation this week. Jules Kouassi, a farmer near Daloa, noted that 3.6mm of rain fell last week, 26.1mm below the average. The recent rain has raised hopes among farmers that the situation may improve.
Farmers in the central regions of Bongouanou and Yamoussoukro stated that more rain was needed to support the crop as harvesting gathers pace. The dry conditions have raised concerns about the quality and supply of cocoa, which is a crucial crop for Ivory Coast's economy. The country's cocoa production is closely watched by the global market.
According to farmers, the dry conditions may impact not only the quantity but also the quality of the cocoa beans. If the dry weather persists, it may lead to a decrease in the quality of the beans, which could have significant implications for the country's cocoa industry. The situation is being closely monitored by farmers and industry experts.
The dry conditions in Ivory Coast have raised concerns about the country's cocoa production, which is a significant contributor to the country's economy. The situation may have implications for the global cocoa market, as Ivory Coast is the world's top cocoa producer. Farmers are hoping for more regular rainfall to support the crop and ensure a good harvest.
Key points
- Dry conditions in Ivory Coast may threaten cocoa quality and supply.
- Farmers warn that harvesting for the main crop may end in December if rains do not become regular.
- The situation may have implications for the global cocoa market.
