Cargill Ghana and International Cocoa Initiative celebrate 111 young graduates building skills for the future

Cargill Ghana and the International Cocoa Initiative (ICI) celebrated the achievements of 111 young graduates who completed vocational apprenticeship training programs between 2023 and 2026. The graduation ceremony took place in Debiso, Western North Region of Ghana, symbolizing a significant milestone in providing practical skills and economic opportunities to young individuals.

Max Essoh Latte, Managing Director of Cargill Ghana, emphasized the company's commitment to the wellbeing of cocoa-growing communities, stating that equipping young people with skills helps address child labor and creates sustainable livelihoods. The program targets young people with limited education or skills development opportunities, offering training in trades such as auto mechanics, carpentry, tailoring, baking, welding, dressmaking, and glass fabrication.

Since its inception in April 2025 with 60 graduates, the program has now empowered 171 young people with practical skills to establish businesses and contribute to their families' and communities' economic wellbeing. Mike Arthur, Country Director for ICI, highlighted the initiative's role in reducing child labor and poverty in cocoa-growing regions, noting that vocational skills can offer young people pathways to economic independence and community contributions.

The ceremony convened stakeholders including government officials, traditional leaders, parents, master craftspersons, and development partners dedicated to protecting and empowering children and young people in cocoa-growing communities.