Entry: Bill Guyton, World Cocoa Foundation
Last Friday, the Government of Cote d'Ivoire issued their certification report on child labor in the cocoa sector. This follows the Ghana certification report released earlier this year.
The findings from the Cote d'Ivoire report are numerous, but what struck me most is the need for better access to education in rural areas. When I was in Eastern Cote d'Ivoire in September, I had similar observations. Farming communities in many remote areas lack schools. Where schools exist, classrooms are crowded with students, eager to learn. Their teachers have limited educational materials and support. In the western regions of the country, conditions are even more challenging.
The Cote d'Ivoire certification report provides an honest account of challenges related to rural education, child labor practices and farm safety, The solutions will require the active engagement and partnership of African governments, the international development community, the private sector and others. The World Cocoa Foundation will continue to play an active role, working with our partners to help bring additional educational opportunities to cocoa growing communities.