Roraima's Cocoa Cultivation Drives Economic Growth and Rural Development

On World Chocolate Day, July 7th, Sebrae Roraima is highlighting the growing economic importance of cocoa cultivation in the state. This crop is transforming the lives of rural producers by offering opportunities for income diversification and business development. Joseilson Alves de Araújo, a farmer who previously relied on banana monoculture, began cultivating cocoa in 2019. He found it challenging initially, facing difficulties with crop management, pests, and diseases, but persevered through learning and adaptation. The 'Cacau Amazônia' project, coordinated by Sebrae and partner institutions, has been instrumental in providing technical assistance and knowledge. Through Sebrae's training, Joseilson learned essential farming techniques, including pruning and pest control, as well as financial management for his property. This support has also inspired him to explore adding value to his production by processing cocoa beans into chocolate. He currently cultivates one hectare and plans to expand, expecting a 10% annual production increase. Sebrae Roraima's project manager, Rodrigo Rosa, notes that Roraima's unique edaphoclimatic conditions, including its location above the equator, favorable light and water availability, and typical Amazonian warmth and humidity, create ideal conditions for cocoa. The state also benefits from the absence of certain pests common in other cocoa-producing regions. The 'Cacau Roraima' program has distributed seeds and encouraged new plantings, while 'Cacau Amazônia' supports 25 producers in the south-central region. By 2026, an estimated 469 producers are expected to cultivate cocoa across approximately 1,265 hectares in municipalities like Caroebe and São João da Baliza. Cocoa cultivation contributes to sustainable development by minimizing soil intervention and integrating environmental preservation with agricultural production, positioning Roraima's cocoa producers as potential leaders in innovation and best practices.