By: Josephine Nyeweah in Kenema district
Over 5,000 cocoa farmers in Kenema and Kailahun districts are set to benefit from a partnership established on Saturday, November 9, 2024, between Capital Trading Company and MOAWOMA Rural Women Development Cooperative, a national non-governmental organization affiliated with WHH in Sierra Leone.
In her address at the Capital Foods compound in Tissor village, Nongowa Chiefdom, Kenema District, Yatta Samah, Director of MOAWOMA Rural Women’s Development Cooperative Society, expressed her pride in the day’s significance. She referred to the moment as “an indelible mark” for MOAWOMA, which began as a small group during the war in 1996 and has now evolved into a cooperative. She noted that MOAWOMA is an implementing partner for Welthungerhilfe (WHH) and recently became a co-partner in the ADORE project. The project brought in machinery to process cocoa butter and cocoa powder for local and international markets. Samah encouraged farmers to increase their cocoa production to boost their income.
George Muigai, Head of Project for WHH-EU, described the event as a milestone in strengthening the MOAWOMA Rural Women’s Cocoa Development Cooperative and in building local production capacity for cocoa butter in Sierra Leone. “Through this Equipment Ownership and Management Agreement,” he said, “we celebrate not only the formalization of a partnership but also a shared commitment to sustainable, community-driven economic growth.”
Muigai extended special gratitude to WHH and the EU, whose support through the ADORE project made the acquisition of this cocoa processing equipment possible. “Your commitment has allowed us to bring vital tools and resources to the MOAWOMA Cooperative, creating an environment for value addition, empowerment, and improved livelihoods for local farmers.”
He emphasized that the equipment represents more than just machinery; it symbolizes a pathway to economic independence, increased product value, and a stronger market presence. He noted that cooperative members now have the opportunity to transition from raw material suppliers to producers of high-value cocoa butter, which promises greater returns and self-sufficiency.
The agreement stipulates that this equipment will be owned and managed by MOAWOMA members, with Capital Foods as a valued business partner supporting market access, quality control, and commercial growth. Capital Foods’ commitment to providing technical expertise, quality standards, and business development is essential for success in a competitive market.
“You, MOAWOMA, have taken full responsibility for this equipment,” Muigai remarked, “which requires diligent care, maintenance, and accountability to ensure it serves its purpose long into the future. Capital Foods will stand beside you, not as an owner but as a collaborative partner, to achieve our shared objectives and uphold the trust placed in us by all stakeholders.”
Under the terms of this agreement, Capital Foods has committed to contribute a portion of profits from premium cocoa sales to MOAWOMA, reflecting a mutual investment in the cooperative’s success. The agreement also establishes a Joint Monitoring Team to ensure transparency, address challenges swiftly, and keep operations aligned with the partnership’s goals.
Paramount Chief of Dama Chiefdom, PC Sandi Momoh Fowai, praised the partnership, calling it beneficial not only for local farmers but also for the nation and the global community. He thanked WHH and its partners for their continued support.
