Ivory Coast Cocoa Farmers Pivot to Rubber Farming

In West Africa, a significant change is occurring as cocoa farmers in Ivory Coast are increasingly switching to rubber farming due to the impact of climate change. The country has long been a major cocoa producer, but changing weather patterns have made traditional cocoa farming less sustainable.

Unpredictable rainfall, prolonged droughts, and rising temperatures have led to decreased cocoa yields. As a result, many farmers are turning to rubber trees, which are more resilient to climate variations.

Rubber farming offers a more stable option in the face of environmental uncertainties, providing farmers like Yao Kouadio with a reliable source of income to support their families.

Despite the challenges of transitioning to rubber farming, government and non-governmental support programs are helping farmers adapt to this new agricultural landscape through training and financial assistance.

Environmental experts highlight the potential benefits of rubber trees in preventing soil erosion and promoting biodiversity through sustainable management practices.

They emphasize the risks associated with monoculture farming, whether it be cocoa or rubber, and stress the importance of integrated farming practices that incorporate diverse crops and sustainable land management techniques to ensure long-term environmental health.

As climate change continues to impact agriculture globally, the experiences of farmers in Ivory Coast emphasize the necessity of adaptive strategies. By adopting rubber farming, these farmers are not only protecting their livelihoods but also contributing to the development of a more resilient agricultural sector.

This transition could serve as a valuable model for other regions grappling with similar climatic challenges.