Better Cotton Launches Innovative Initiative For Cotton Farmers In Côte d’Ivoire
Better Cotton has announced the launch of a groundbreaking programme in Côte d’Ivoire, demonstrating its dedication to supporting 200,000 local cotton farmers in the initial five years. This innovative initiative at the field level will provide essential training and resources to farming communities throughout the nation, marking a significant stride towards fostering sustainable cotton production.
In a strategic collaboration, the Professional Association of Cotton Companies of Côte d’Ivoire (APROCOT-CI) has been appointed as Better Cotton’s key partner for Côte d’Ivoire. APROCOT-CI will play a pivotal role in overseeing initiatives aimed at enhancing the climate resilience and economic prospects of farming communities. This association, representing the interests of various cotton entities from farms to gins, comprises six member organizations: CIDT, Ivoire Coton, Global Cotton SA, CO.I.C-SA, SICOSA 2.0, and Seco SA. These organizations will function as Better Cotton programme partners, delivering essential training and resources to cotton communities for implementing social and environmental enhancements.
Jean François Toure, President of APROCOT-CI, emphasized the shared commitment to creating a positive impact in the cotton industry. By integrating Better Cotton’s sustainable farming practices with APROCOT-CI’s local expertise, the aim is to elevate cotton yields, diminish environmental impact and enhance social and economic outcomes for farmers in the region.
The collaboration stems from APROCOT-CI’s Declaration of Interest submitted to Better Cotton last year, expressing the national interest in initiating a Better Cotton programme. A multi-stakeholder event hosted by Better Cotton in March this year in Abidjan further laid the groundwork for the programme, assessing the potential impact and scope.
Better Cotton is expanding its footprint across Africa, empowering smallholder farmers to combat climate change and embrace a continuous improvement approach to sustainable agricultural practices. With a membership network spanning from the farm to the retailer and brand levels, Better Cotton is strategically positioned to meet the growing demand while ensuring a sustainable supply.
Alan McClay, Chief Executive Officer, Better Cotton, expressed excitement about the expansion into Côte d’Ivoire, highlighting the pivotal role of the partnership with APROCOT-CI in delivering impactful work in the country. The collaboration aims to enable domestic cotton farmers to reap the environmental and economic benefits of more sustainable cotton production. McClay expressed gratitude for APROCOT-CI’s support and commitment to this shared cause.
