By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Ngolaegorbu Cocoa Farmers Union (NGOCFU) convened its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on January 3, 2025, at Baoma Koya in the Kenema District, drawing participation from seven Paramount Chiefs of the Gola Rain Forest region, local cocoa farmers, and key stakeholders, including the Sierra Leone Police and community elders.
The gathering sought to update farmers on the union’s progress and to formulate strategies for its smooth operation moving forward.
Foday Brima, the chairman of NGOCFU, detailed the legal framework governing the organization. He confirmed that the union possesses all necessary documentation to function as a cooperative, including various licenses such as the Agent License, Dealers License, Export License, and certifications from the National Revenue Authority and the Registrar General. “We are committed not only to ensuring the legitimacy of our union but also to enhancing transparency and accountability for our farmers,” he said.
Mohamed Sama, the union’s certification and contact representative, took the opportunity to discuss the importance of Fairtrade certification.
He reassured attendees that renewing certification is crucial for the union’s standing in the global market, urging farmers to continue selling their cocoa through the cooperative. “The premium sharing model associated with Fairtrade brings more benefits directly to our farmers,” Sama emphasized.
The financial health of the union was another focal point during the meeting, as Mr. Alpha Sheriff presented an audited financial report, reassuring members of the union’s fiscal responsibility and integrity.
The keynote speaker, Hon. Paramount Chief Alamee Mustapha Kanneh of Koya Chiefdom, echoed sentiments of unity among the farmers.
In his address, he underscored the significance of the Gola Rainforest National Park, regarded as one of the globe’s top five conservation areas.
Chief Kanneh expressed concern that the communities surrounding the park have not reaped the expected benefits from its conservation.
He voiced his distress over the wealthier management entities, stating, “Whilst those managing the forest grow richer, the rightful owners remain impoverished.”
He urged management of the Gola Forest to embrace greater transparency, particularly concerning the equitable distribution of funds intended for the Chiefdoms.
Also voicing similar concerns, Chief Ngewo of Malema Chiefdom stressed the need for accountability in the governance of the Gola Forest.
The shared principle was clear: the local communities should be directly benefitting from the conservation of their natural resources, rather than seeing their rights diminished while external entities profit.
Adding to the optimism surrounding the union was Albert Tucker, Chairman of Ético—a trading initiative committed to sustainable practices—who expressed admiration for the achievements of NGOCFU.
Though he was unable to attend the meeting, he acknowledged the dedication of the farmers in bringing Sierra Leone cocoa to the Fairtrade and global markets. “It has been a challenging path, but your commitment not only honors your members but elevates the reputation of Sierra Leonean cocoa at large,” Tucker remarked.
The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of purpose among the cocoa farmers and stakeholders, as collaborative efforts were encouraged to ensure that the communities around the Gola Rainforest derive meaningful benefits from the valuable resources.
As the union moves forward, aspirations for unity and accountability remain at the forefront, with a shared vision for sustainable agricultural practices and improved livelihoods for all involved.
