Ivory Coast cocoa farmers are calling for increased rainfall to bolster the upcoming mid-crop, as dry conditions persist across key growing regions. Last week’s rainfall remained below average, and farmers report intense heat is depleting soil moisture.
The month of March is deemed crucial for the mid-crop’s size and quality, which will be harvested from April to September.
Farmers in central regions, including Yamoussoukro, Daloa, and Bongouanou, express concern over the lack of moisture, noting that small and average pods require more rain for optimal growth.
They anticipate a sufficient harvest starting in May, but only if regular, abundant rainfall occurs.
In contrast, farmers in western, southern, and eastern regions, such as Soubre, Agboville, Divo, and Abengourou, report that the mid-crop is developing well, with harvesting expected to begin later this month.
However, even in these areas, rainfall remained below average. The persistent heat, with weekly average temperatures ranging from 28.5 to 31.7 degrees Celsius, continues to be a factor affecting crop development.