Saleh Azizi Fardkhales
This paper explores the cacao sector in Sierra Leone through the perspectives of those involved in its production and distribution. After slowing down during the civil war, the production and trade of cacao have returned and is now again a viable option of rural economic development for many of the stakeholders involved. A total of thirty-six interviews and surveys with people involved in cacao production and trade were performed in late 2008 and early 2009. This paper attempts to build a good overview of the cacao sector in Sierra Leone, the perceived realities of each stakeholder in the sectors value chain, and some issues arising to good quality cacao. In this study I explore topics such as cacao quality and compensation, contract farming and access to finance, formal and informal networks, and stakeholder relationships within the value chain. As non-profit institutions, donors, and lending institutions get more involved in the cacao sector, my best wish is that this paper can serve them to get a good rich description of the lived experience and challenges faced by those involved in the production and distribution of cacao in Sierra Leone. This paper first provides a current snapshot of the cacao industry in Sierra Leone and talks shortly of its history. It then proceeds to explore relationship among stakeholders involved in the sector and the loans and contracts that take place. Finally, this paper will provide some recommendation to donors and nonprofits working with cacao in Sierra Leone.
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