WCF, Mars see results of outreach program in Cote d'Ivoire

CHOCOLATE maker Mars, Incorporated takes its Vision for Change program to schools in cocoa-growing communities in Cote d'Ivoire. In partnership with the World Cocoa Foundation (WCF), through its privately-supported Cocoa Community Development Fund, they recently inaugurated improved facilities at a school in Bobouo including a new cafeteria, latrines and hand-washing areas, to inspire children of cocoa farmers to remain in school. Ten more schools will benefit from the WCF and Mars partnership.

These improvements are hoped to encourage children especially the girls to want to attend school. Most recently, the primary school in Bobouo had an enrollment of 127 pupils, including 62 girls. A survey says that about 71% of children in cocoa-growing households in Côte d'Ivoire attend school, a 12% increase from five years ago.

"Mars Global Chocolate is committed to improving the farms and communities for cocoa farmers and their families within Cote d'Ivoire.  It is gratifying to see the excitement of this community and their support in making this canteen a reality for their children. I am confident it will have a positive influence on education within the community.  I'm also pleased to see another result of our long term relationship with WCF," said Mars Global Chocolate President Jean-Christophe Flatin, who was at the site along with other senior leaders from Mars.

"WCF is very happy to partner with Mars and the community of Bobouo on this important project, which will help provide crucial educational opportunities for children who grow up in cocoa-farming families," says Bill Guyton, WCF president.

The WCF, an international organization of cocoa and chocolate manufacturers, processors, supply chain managers, and other companies worldwide, promotes sustainability in the cocoa sector. It represents over 80% of the global cocoa market. Its programs benefit farmers and their communities in cocoa-growing regions of Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Americas.