The International Cocoa Initiative is a unique partnership of labour unions, NGOs, cocoa processors and the major chocolate brands.  ICI is dedicated to ensuring no child is exploited in the growing of cocoa and, ultimately, to ending child and forced labour in the sector.

75% of the world’s cocoa is grown on small family farms in West Africa.  Cocoa farms are generally small and unmechanised. Often the whole family works together – particularly during harvest.  This is the simple reality of a cocoa-growing in West Africa.

Solving the complex and sensitive social issues that underlie child and forced labour requires the understanding, commitment and leadership of individual communities across the region. Community-based solutions that harness local knowledge and capabilities are essential to positive, sustainable change.

“Before children were working very hard in the farms.  We didn’t know this was harmful to them.  Now the children are cared for; they no longer do hazardous work.  We make sure they go to school and attendance has greatly improved. “ said Nana Kwama Bush, Chief of Sika Nti village, Ghana.  

At ICI, we believe understanding the complexity of the issues on the ground is essential to success.  By working locally with cocoa-growing communities, ICI is beginning to change the way cocoa is grown.