COCOA farmers are being urged to remain vigilant and proactive in managing the devastating frosty pod rot disease, which continues to threaten the viability of Jamaica’s cocoa industry.

The call came from project management director and coordinator at the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) Dwayne Henry, who was addressing a recent graduation ceremony for 50 farmers who successfully completed training in Cocoa Frosty Pod Rot Disease Management.

Henry explained that frosty pod rot, a fungal disease, can reduce marketable cocoa yields by as much as 80 per cent, noting that while infected trees may continue to bear fruit, much of it would be unfit for sale.

He emphasised that without proper management, farmers’ earning potential could be drastically reduced.

Henry outlined a multi-pronged approach being implemented to combat the disease, including integrated pest and crop management systems, climate-smart extension support, and the use of disease-tolerant cocoa varieties.

Additionally, farmers are being equipped with tools and inputs through a revolving loan system, while partnerships with stakeholders have facilitated the development of specialised fertilisers tailored for cocoa production.

Henry said the training forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen farmers’ resilience and sustain cocoa production amid persistent disease challenges.

He said the graduation ceremony marked a significant milestone for the participants, who were presented with seeds and agricultural tools by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, as part of ongoing support to put the sector on a sustainable path.

— JIS