African Cocoa Marketplace (ACM) has launched its marketplace services, connecting African cocoa sellers with global buyers and investors.

ACM’s ultimate  goal is to elevate the value of Africa’s cocoa to reflect the continent’s 120+ years of  cocoa sustainability, quality, and excellence 

The launch of the groundbreaking digital marketplace is perfectly timed for the beginning of the main 2024/25 harvest season across Africa.

ACM’s marketplace will help sellers market their value propositions and business strengths to a global audience of buyers and investors. It will also help buyers find the exact cocoa products they need for their businesses according to their values. 

ACM said it does due diligence with sellers to guarantee that every marketing claim made has been vetted and certified according to its strict standards.

ACM’s new certification is meant to enhance supply chain visibility and sustainability for cocoa. 

Headed of the African Cocoa Platform, Dr. Kristy Leissle, explained that ACM has been developing its new platform for 18 months, disclosing that it has already begun onboarding cocoa sellers from Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra  Leone. 

“Our platform will make it easy for buyers and sellers alike to share their value propositions and provide evidence of best practices with potential  business partners,” 

Denise Karway, the Chief Executive Officer of United Women for Sustainable Development from Bong County in Liberia, stated that the group is excited to join ACM.

“As a women-led cooperative dedicated to organic cocoa production and trade, this platform will give us a unique opportunity to connect with a broader market and contribute to sustainable agricultural practices,” said Karway.

“Our goal is to expand our reach, increase sales, and support local communities by creating sustainable livelihoods.

By leveraging the ACM platform, we hope to showcase our high-quality organic cocoa beans and ensure more women and youth are involved in the value chain. By joining ACM, we can work together to create a  more equitable and sustainable future for the cocoa industry.”

Stephen Ashia from the ABOCFA Organic Cocoa Cooperative in Ghana said the 2023/24 harvest was not a good season because of climate change and other factors.

However, the farmers are hoping for a better yield for the upcoming main crop, and he is delighted that the cooperative is joining ACM to sell its beans. 

Leissle said, “When I look at African cocoa, I see a venerable past: well over a century of global leadership in cocoa production, with cocoa wealth, expertise, and knowledge passed on through generations. 

‘I also see a bright future, which lies in the hands of cocoa farmers, entrepreneurs,  and business leaders across the continent who trade and process cocoa.”

She invited cocoa producers and sellers across Africa to participate in the onboarding process.