Carrying Forward the Legacy: Strengthening the Cocoa Market System in Monaragala
As the legacy organisation of Oxfam, DevPro is proud to continue advancing the impactful work built over years of dedicated efforts in inclusive market systems development. Our mission is to ensure that rural communities, particularly smallholder farmers, can thrive economically and socially through sustainable practices.
Currently, our team is actively engaged in the field, conducting comprehensive studies aimed at restructuring the cocoa market system in Monaragala. This involves direct engagement with local farmers, market actors, and stakeholders to gain an in-depth understanding of both the opportunities and constraints present within the cocoa value chain. Our approach emphasizes collaboration and dialogue, allowing us to gather diverse perspectives that inform our strategies.
Cocoa has emerged as a promising income-generating crop in Monaragala, showing significant potential to enhance livelihoods in the region. Through our market systems approach, we aim to strengthen the critical linkages among actors across the cocoa supply chain. This includes improving communication and coordination among farmers, processors, exporters, and retailers. By fostering these connections, we seek to create a more integrated and efficient market, which is vital for enhancing sustainable income opportunities for smallholder producers.
Our commitment extends beyond immediate economic gains; we are dedicated to advancing inclusive, resilient, and locally led development solutions that empower communities. We believe that by investing in the capacity of local actors and promoting sustainable practices, we can support long-term growth and resilience in the cocoa sector, ultimately ensuring a brighter future for the farmers of Monaragala.