Recent heavy rains in central Ivory Coast have raised optimism among cocoa farmers and improved conditions for the upcoming April-September mid-crop. The country, the world’s leading cocoa producer, experiences a dry season from mid-November to March, a period usually marked by limited rainfall.
Farmers had been concerned that hot, dry weather could delay the start of the mid-crop season and reduce cocoa bean supplies. However, above-average rains were a welcome relief, with farmers saying the moisture would help young cocoa pods survive and grow.
Positive Impact on Cocoa Trees
In the central region of Yamoussoukro, where rainfall reached 18.2 mm last week (11.3 mm more than the five-year average), farmers expressed satisfaction with the improved conditions. “The trees will be better. Many were weakened by lack of water,” said Etienne Brou, a local farmer.
Similar reports came from other regions, such as Bongouanou and Daloa, where rainfall varied but generally supported cocoa tree health. Farmers in southern and eastern regions, such as Agboville and Abengourou, also reported positive growing conditions with many young cocoa pods developing.
Mid-Crop Outlook
Despite rainfall levels being below average in the western region of Soubre and the southern region of Divo, farmers remained optimistic. They believe that with regular rains from March onwards, the mid-crop harvest could match last year’s yield.
“If the rains continue in March, we will have enough beans for the mid-crop,” said Kouassi Kouame, a farmer near Soubre. Rainfall last week was 1.2 mm, significantly below average.
Temperatures in Ivory Coast last week ranged between 27.8°C and 33.2°C, and the rain played a key role in reviving cocoa tree health.