Better Cotton, the world's leading cotton sustainability initiative, is launching a groundbreaking program in Côte d'Ivoire, signaling a commitment to uplift 200,000 local cotton farmers over the next five years. The initiative aims to equip farming communities with training and resources, laying the foundation for the production of more sustainable cotton.
The Professional Association of Cotton Companies of Côte d'Ivoire (APROCOT-CI) will play a pivotal role as Better Cotton's Strategic Partner, overseeing efforts to enhance climate resilience and economic prospects for local farming communities. APROCOT-CI, representing the interests of key cotton companies in the country, will collaborate with six member organizations, including CIDT, Ivoire Coton, Global Cotton SA, CO.I.C-SA, SICOSA 2.0, and Seco SA, to serve as Better Cotton Programme Partners. Together, they will provide essential training and resources to cotton communities, fostering social and environmental improvements.
Jean François Toure, President of APROCOT-CI, emphasized the shared commitment to making a positive impact in the cotton industry, focusing on improving the lives of smallholder cotton farmers. The collaboration integrates Better Cotton's sustainable farming practices with APROCOT-CI's local expertise to boost cotton yields, reduce environmental impact, and enhance social and economic outcomes for farmers.
This strategic partnership emerged after APROCOT-CI expressed national interest in a Better Cotton program, and a multistakeholder event in Abidjan in March solidified the potential impact. Alan McClay, CEO at Better Cotton, highlighted the significance of expanding into Côte d'Ivoire, expressing gratitude for APROCOT-CI's support in advancing sustainable cotton production. Better Cotton's move aligns with its broader goal of building a strong presence in Africa, empowering smallholder farmers to address climate change through continuous improvements in sustainable agricultural practices.
