Divine Chocolate

Article about Divine Chocolate

Logo of Divine Chocolate

Divine Chocolate is a chocolate company that is co-owned by the Kuapa Kokoo cooperative, a Ghanaian cocoa farmers' organization. The company is known for its commitment to fair trade practices and its unique ownership model, which empowers cocoa farmers by giving them a significant stake in the company.

History

Divine Chocolate was established in 1998 with the aim of creating a fair trade chocolate brand that would benefit cocoa farmers directly. The company was founded by the Kuapa Kokoo cooperative, with support from several organizations, including Twin Trading, The Body Shop, and Comic Relief.

The cooperative was formed in 1993 to provide a voice for cocoa farmers in Ghana and to ensure they received a fair price for their cocoa. By 1998, Kuapa Kokoo had grown significantly and sought to expand its influence by entering the chocolate market directly.

Ownership and Structure

Divine Chocolate is unique in the chocolate industry due to its ownership structure. The Kuapa Kokoo cooperative owns a significant share of the company, allowing the farmers to have a say in the company's operations and to share in its profits. This model is designed to ensure that the benefits of the chocolate trade are distributed more equitably.

Products

Divine Chocolate offers a wide range of chocolate products, including milk chocolate, dark chocolate, and specialty bars with various flavors and ingredients. The company is committed to using high-quality cocoa sourced from its farmer members and adheres to fair trade standards.

Fair Trade Commitment

Divine Chocolate emphasizes fair trade practices.

Divine Chocolate is a pioneer in the fair trade movement, ensuring that its products are ethically sourced and that farmers receive a fair price for their cocoa. The company is certified by Fairtrade International, which guarantees that the farmers are paid a fair trade premium that can be invested back into their communities.

Impact on Cocoa Farmers

The impact of Divine Chocolate on cocoa farmers in Ghana has been significant. By providing a stable and fair income, the company has helped improve the livelihoods of many farmers and their families. The cooperative model also empowers farmers by giving them a voice in the global chocolate market.

Related pages

• Fair trade
• Cocoa production in Ghana
• Kuapa Kokoo
• Chocolate