The initiative has three priority areas

Protection and forest restoration, with the aim for cocoa to fully contribute to the protection and restoration of Colombia’s forests.

Sustainable production and livelihoods of farmers, incorporating sustainable intensification and diversification of cocoa production to improve farmers’ livelihoods and incomes, and reduce pressure on natural forests.

Community participation and social inclusion around cocoa in critical post-conflict areas in Colombia.

Geographic Focus

CIAT’s baseline study of the cocoa value chain in Colombia assessed 529 municipalities in Colombia based on their forest coverage, cocoa production, and armed conflict index, and prioritized PDET regions with cocoa and agroforestry potential that would support implementation of the Peace Agreement and productive restoration of deforested areas, as well as joint efforts by signatories, the government, and cooperation.

A total of 5 regions were prioritized (Sur de Bolívar, Alto Córdoba, Bajo Cauca Antioqueño, Nariño and Piedemonte Amazónico). We are in the process of focusing and prioritizing the PDET municipalities.