Over 30 participants across the country’s cocoa value chain participated in an intensive 3-day Cocoa Post-Harvest Training Programme at Belmont Estate in St Patrick, Grenada.
The objective of the event was to strengthen technical knowledge, improve cocoa quality, and support the long-term competitiveness of Grenada’s internationally recognised fine-flavour cocoa industry.
The training forms part of the EU-funded ACP Business Friendly Programme, funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC) in partnership with the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) through its Alliances for Action initiative. Hosted at Belmont Estate in collaboration with The Belmont Foundation, the programme forms part of a broader regional effort to strengthen sustainable cocoa value chains through improved quality, value addition, market access, resilience, and investment opportunities for producers and agribusinesses.
Reflecting on the initiative, William Castro Rodriguez, Programme Lead at the International Trade Centre, said the programme demonstrates the importance of investing in people, partnerships, and practical knowledge to strengthen every stage of the cocoa value chain. “Through our Alliances for Action approach, we are investing in people, partnerships, and practical knowledge that strengthen every stage of the cocoa value chain. Improving post-harvest quality not only enhances competitiveness and market opportunities, but also helps create more sustainable livelihoods for farming communities and a stronger future for the Caribbean cocoa sector.”
The programme combined classroom instruction with practical field demonstrations and hands-on exercises covering agronomy, plant and field management, harvesting techniques, fermentation management, drying, moisture control, quality assessment, traceability, record keeping, and quality assurance systems. The objective was to strengthen technical knowledge and practical skills from the farm through post-harvest handling, ensuring that Grenada’s fine-flavour cocoa continues to meet the highest international standards.
Participants represented a broad cross-section of Grenada’s cocoa sector, including the Ministry of Agriculture, Grenada Cocoa Association and Jouvay Chocolate, Tri Island Chocolate, Grenada Chocolate Company, Grenada Limited Edition Chocolate, Taste D Spice, farmers, and cocoa processors. Throughout the 3 days, participants actively engaged in discussions, practical exercises, and the exchange of experiences, creating an atmosphere of collaboration and shared learning. Their enthusiasm, thoughtful questions, and willingness to embrace new approaches reflected a collective commitment to strengthening Grenada’s cocoa industry through continuous improvement and technical excellence.
The training was facilitated by Sarah Bharath, a cocoa specialist with more than 20 years of experience in cocoa research, post-harvest quality, and farmer training throughout the Caribbean. Throughout the programme, she delivered the sessions with energy and enthusiasm, presenting technical concepts in a dynamic, practical, and highly interactive manner that encouraged discussion, hands-on learning, and active participation. Reflecting on the programme, Bharath noted: “The level of engagement throughout the programme was exceptional. Producing outstanding cocoa requires consistently applying best practices from the field through post-harvest handling, and it has been encouraging to see the enthusiasm of participants to learn, ask questions, and embrace practices that will continue to strengthen Grenada’s cocoa industry.”
The Ministry of Agriculture also welcomed the initiative. Reflecting on the value of the training for the sector, Marcia Lord, Extension Officer for the Northern District, said: “The knowledge gained will strengthen the capacity of our farmers, extension officers, cocoa producers, and processors, helping us consistently produce high-quality cocoa while further enhancing Grenada’s reputation for excellence.”
The programme also underscored the importance of continued collaboration among farmers, processors, manufacturers, government agencies, researchers, financial institutions, and international development partners. As global markets increasingly demand quality, sustainability, traceability, and value-added products, continued investment in technical knowledge and innovation will be essential to maintaining Grenada’s position as a leading producer of premium fine-flavour cocoa.
Shadel Nyack Compton, Managing Director of Belmont Estate, commented on the value of this programme to Grenada. “Grenada has earned an international reputation for producing exceptional fine-flavour cocoa. Preserving that reputation requires excellence from the farm through every stage of post-harvest handling and processing. By continuing to invest in our people, strengthening technical capacity, and embracing sustainable practices, we can build a resilient cocoa industry that creates opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs, and future generations while reinforcing Grenada’s position as a global leader in premium fine-flavour cocoa. Deepest thanks to the European Union, the International Trade Centre and all strategic partners for making this opportunity available for Grenada.”
The programme concluded with the presentation of Certificates of Participation, recognising the commitment of each participant to continuous learning and excellence in cocoa production and post-harvest management. As Grenada continues to build its reputation as a producer of world-class fine-flavour cocoa, initiatives such as this demonstrate the value of collaboration, knowledge sharing, and strategic investment in people. Together, these efforts will help ensure that Grenada’s cocoa industry remains resilient, sustainable, and internationally competitive for generations to come.
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