Rescue and Establishment of Criollo Cocoa plantations in Agroforestry Systems with Indigenous, Afro-descendant and Peasant Producers, Province of Bocas Del Toro-Republic of Panama.

The cacao farms of Afro-Indigenous farmers in Bocas del Toro, Panama are more than 50-years old and at the end of their productive life. Low yields lead to reduced incomes, which drives migration from the region.

The Cooperativa de Servicios Mltiples de Cacao Bocatorea (COCABO) supports farmers to renovate cacao plantations and implement organic cultivation techniques. At the IAF, we support community-led solutions to expand economic opportunity in Panama. COCABO's efforts will increase productivity and incomes among farmer members.

Through its efforts to define and market the chocolate flavor profile produced in the area, COCABO will increase demand for their product, ultimately enabling them to command a higher price for it, expanding economic opportunities for small farmers and their families in the area.