As this year comes to a close, we reflect on the achievements of this year and plan for a successful new year. In this letter, we share some of the year's highlights as told by the farmers and residents of cocoa growing communities throughout the world. In West Africa, farmer field schools are now reaching cocoa farmers in Liberia; the state governments in Nigeria have shown remarkable commitment to cocoa farmers by supporting their own farmer schools; young adults are learning entrepreneurship skills; and, teachers are embracing interactive teaching. In Latin America, farmer organizations are building their capacity to serve their members, and the first cocoa farmer field schools were successfully conducted in Peru. In Southeast Asia, cocoa farmers are learning the art of farming - improving quality, increasing yields, and protecting the environment. These stories represent a diverse array of farmers from ten countries in three continents, from young farmers just beginning their farms to experienced farmers learning new techniques. All of the farmers share a committment to cocoa and an inspiring dedication to learning and self-improvement. In 2008, WCF plans to continue support of these programs and expand efforts to encourage innovations in the supply chain in order to improve efficiency and returns to farmers.
We wish you all the best in the new year,
Bill, Robert, Tracey, Charlie and Virginia