The IACC brings together industry members like Mars with farmer groups, NGOs, development groups and others committed to the future of West Africa. This public-private approach is the basis for efforts already underway in the West African cocoa sector to help farmers and their families.
Mars, working through the IACC framework, identifies and develops new approaches to improving conditions in West African cocoa farming communities, while incorporating and strengthening other ongoing and complementary efforts. The IACC supports programs that:
- Increase farm family incomes
- Improve the health, safety and well-being of cocoa farmers and their families
- Support improved access to quality, relevant education
- Strengthen biodiversity and wildlife conservation
- Build stronger, more prosperous cocoa farming communities
Mars' first program within the IACC framework is a partnership with Winrock International that is designed to increase educational opportunities for children and young adults living in the cocoa communities of Cote d'Ivoire.
