Background

Soil degradation is increasingly affecting cocoa farms, reducing productivity and threatening biodiversity. Farmers and extensionists often lack simple, practical tools to assess soil health and make informed management decisions. This project aims to address that gap by developing a cocoa‑specific soil health monitoring framework tailored to real farming conditions in Ghana, Ivory Coast, Peru, and Ecuador.

Key figures

  • Country and region(s): Ghana, Ivory Coast, Peru, Ecuador

  • Project duration: October 2025 – March 2027

  • Implementation partner: FiBL – Researech Institute for Organic Agriculture

  • Further partners: To be appointed in each target country

  • Direct and indirect stakeholders: Cocoa farmers, advisory service providers, local partner organizations

  • Focus areas covered: Sustainable cocoa production; Ecosystem protection and regeneration

  • Contribution of the LCF: CHF 294’000 (100% financed by the Lindt Cocoa Foundation)

Main objectives

The project aims to create a scientifically robust yet practical soil health assessment framework that can be used directly by cocoa farmers, extensionists, and local partners. Specific objectives include:

  • Develop a Cocoa-Specific Soil Health Monitoring Framework

  • Implement Large-Scale Soil Sampling and Analysis

  • Build Local Capacity and Strengthen Knowledge

  • Develop the Soil Health Index

  • Create Practical Training and Extension Materials