Barry Callebaut have announced the launch of an independent non profit organisation, the Cocoa Horizons Foundation with the mission to improve the livelihoods of cocoa farmers and their communities through the promotion of sustainable, entrepreneurial farming and community development.
The Foundation’s focal points are to train farmers in good agricultural practices, supporting them with materials and innovative financing solutions. While also working with rural communities to improve education opportunities, support child protection, empower women and provide safe water and basic health services.
For the implementation of its activities, the Cocoa Horizons Foundation relies on Barry Callebaut’s team of experienced field staff working on the ground with cocoa farmers and farming communities as well as trusted external implementing partners and development experts best suited to the objectives of the activities conducted.
Juergen Steinemann CEO of Barry Callebaut said: “Barry Callebaut’s commitment to sustainability is of long standing and was formalised in our 10-year, CHF 40 million Cocoa Horizons initiative. This contribution will now be channeled towards the independent Cocoa Horizons Foundation and pooled with funds from customers and other contributors that are committed to sustainable cocoa.
There are 25,000 farmers already enrolled in Cocoa Horizons Foundation activities. We are strongly convinced that, together, we can scale our impact for many more cocoa farmers and their communities.”
The Cocoa Horizons Foundation is funded by the purchase of Barry Callebaut’s sustainable Horizons cocoa and chocolate products, contributions from donors and customers who are inspired to support the mission of the Foundation and Barry Callebaut’s contributions as part of its CHF 40 million Cocoa Horizons sustainability initiative launched in 2012.
© FoodBev Media Ltd 2024