🍫⚠️ Cocoa Crisis: Black Pod Disease Ravages Cameroon’s Cocoa Farms 🌧️🍂

🦠 Threat: Black Pod Disease

A devastating outbreak of black pod disease is sweeping across cocoa plantations in Southwest Cameroon, threatening the livelihoods of thousands of farmers and the region’s vital cocoa economy.

🌧️ Cause for Concern: Heavy Rainfall & Poor Farm Practices

Since early July, excessive rainfall has created the perfect breeding ground for the fungal infection. The disease attacks cocoa pods, turning them black and causing premature rot, rendering them unusable for chocolate production.

🔍 Root Problems:

• Counterfeit Agrochemicals: Farmers are unknowingly using fake or ineffective fungicides, worsening the outbreak.
• Poor Agronomic Practices: Late pruning, delayed spraying, and inconsistent farm hygiene are accelerating the disease's spread.
• Instability & Delayed Regulation: Conflict in nearby regions has disrupted enforcement of agricultural regulations and delivery of authentic supplies.

📉 Impact:

Farmers report massive yield losses, with some plantations losing up to 70% of their crop. This not only affects incomes but also threatens Cameroon’s position as one of Africa’s top cocoa producers.