top of page
Search
Writer's pictureEthan Swift

The Darkest Side of Chocolate: Orchard Heists' Devastate Cocoa Farmers for Free Sand, or "Sand-winning".

Legal orchard razing is wreaking havoc on Ghana's chocolate farmers, leaving them in financial ruin. Discover the unexpected connection between these thefts and the seemingly harmless quest for free sand by developers.


It took this author years to REALLY care where his chocolate comes from.


Sand-Winning is Eradicating Hundreds of Acres of Cacao Farms in Ghana



Sand-winning, the practice of extracting sand from riverbeds and beaches, is posing a grave threat to the cacao farms in Ghana. This destructive activity, which has gained momentum in recent years, is leading to the loss of vast stretches of fertile land that once yielded abundant harvests of cocoa beans. To fully comprehend the gravity of this situation, it is essential to delve into the intricacies of sand-winning and its far-reaching consequences.


Understanding the Practice of Sand-Winning


Cacao, cocoa, chocolate, childslavery, slavefree,childslavefree,ponococoa, slavefreechocolate, slavefreecocoa, craft chocolate, ceremonial cacao, chocolate sommelier school, chocolate sommelier course, Slave-free cocoa, slave-free chocolate, slave-free cacao, pono cocoa, craft chocolate, human-rights, human-rights in cocoa, human-rights in cocoa, ILO, Illegal-labor, child-labor, illegal-labour, child-labour, child-slave labor
What's Left of a Cacao Orchard After Sand-Winning

Sand-winning involves the excavation of sand for use in construction projects, such as road building and concrete production. It may seem like a mundane activity, but when carried out irresponsibly, it can wreak havoc on the environment and agriculture. The method typically involves the use of heavy machinery, which indiscriminately scoops up sand, leaving behind barren patches on once-lush landscapes.


The scale of sand-winning operations has expanded drastically in recent times, as demand for construction materials surges. This growing demand, coupled with weak regulations, has facilitated the uncontrolled extraction of sand from Ghana's rivers and coastal areas, including those adjacent to cacao farms.


cacao, cocoa, slavefreecocoa, slave free cacao, slavefree chocolate, hawaii chocolate, Ghana farmers, Sand winning
You can help provide Direct Relief thru Pono Cocoa!

Furthermore, the environmental impact of sand-winning extends beyond just the physical landscape. The extraction of sand can disrupt aquatic ecosystems, affecting fish populations and water quality. Sedimentation caused by excessive sand extraction can also lead to the clogging of waterways, impacting the natural flow of rivers and streams.


Moreover, the social implications of rampant sand-winning practices cannot be overlooked. Local communities dependent on agriculture and fishing for their livelihoods often bear the brunt of environmental degradation caused by unchecked sand extraction. Displacement of communities, loss of fertile land, and conflicts over resource use are common issues that arise in areas where sand-winning activities go unchecked.


Environmental Consequences of Sand-Winning in Ghana



The environmental impact of sand-winning cannot be overstated. Its indiscriminate extraction alters watercourses, disrupts ecosystems, and jeopardizes biodiversity. The dredging process dislodges sediment and disturbs habitats, leading to the loss of crucial plant and animal species. Its participated in the cocoa crisis causing 10000% increase in the price of cocoa.


Moreover, sand-winning accelerates erosion, as riverbanks become vulnerable without the natural protection provided by the sand. In the context of cacao farming, this erosion translates into the depletion of fertile topsoil, which is crucial for sustaining healthy cocoa plantations. The diminished soil quality directly affects crop yields, exacerbating the already troubling decrease in cocoa production.


Furthermore, the rampant sand-winning in Ghana has significant implications for local communities. The extraction of sand often leads to the destruction of natural landscapes that are not only important for biodiversity but also hold cultural significance for indigenous populations. The disruption of these areas can result in the loss of traditional practices and knowledge that have been passed down through generations.


Cacao, cocoa, chocolate, childslavery, slavefree,childslavefree,ponococoa, slavefreechocolate, slavefreecocoa, craft chocolate, ceremonial cacao, chocolate sommelier school, chocolate sommelier course, Slave-free cocoa, slave-free chocolate, slave-free cacao, pono cocoa, craft chocolate, human-rights, human-rights in cocoa, human-rights in cocoa, ILO, Illegal-labor, child-labor, illegal-labour, child-labour, child-slave labor
What Cocoa Farmers in Ghana are Saying

In addition, the environmental degradation caused by sand-winning can have far-reaching consequences on the availability of clean water sources. The disturbance of watercourses and sedimentation can lead to increased pollution and sediment runoff, impacting not only aquatic life but also the access to safe drinking water for nearby communities. This poses a serious threat to public health and further exacerbates the already fragile balance between human activities and the natural environment.


Government Regulations and Sand-Winning; But Why?!


The Ghanaian government recognizes the detrimental effects of sand-winning and has enacted regulations to curb this destructive activity. However, enforcement remains a significant challenge. Weak monitoring and limited resources hinder the effective implementation of these regulations, allowing sand-winning operations to continue largely unchecked.


It is crucial for the government to strengthen regulatory mechanisms, increase penalties for illegal sand-winning, and improve monitoring systems. By doing so, Ghana can safeguard its natural resources and protect the livelihoods of cacao farmers.


Unregulated sand-winning extends occurs because in Ghana, no one can own land. It be on a property or parcel, you must be present and actively using it... And not just living on it. You must be using it for agricultural production to keep the land. If its unused, anyone who takes and uses it can claim it and keep it and use for agriculture.


So, they wait, for farmers to leave, travel, visit family and go vacations so that land is empty, vulnerable and unoccupied. They then can tear up your 6 year old (or decades old) orchard for the sand underneath and they don't have to pay any anything. The sand is won. It is free. And all your trees and means of producing your living haven been destroyed. The land is unoccupied again. They have no culpability or responsibility or legal accountability to the land if they stop using it. Just live the villagers if they have to leave home for a reason...And, the developers KEEP TABS! They know exactly who lives where and has how much land. They know when villagers leave or even go on holiday by staying in contact with all the farmers. That way, when the farmers leave, the developers will know. Then they can come in and win the sand-for-free. And its getting, "out of control", according to Pono Cocoa Board Members in Ghana, their local newspapers and social media. Check out Confectionary News for references on this. I put a bunch in this article and even referenced Linkedin. This way you can see how many personal accounts of 'total-devastation' are occuring.


Sustainable Solutions to Protect Cacao Farms


Cacao, cocoa, chocolate, childslavery, slavefree,childslavefree,ponococoa, slavefreechocolate, slavefreecocoa, craft chocolate, ceremonial cacao, chocolate sommelier school, chocolate sommelier course, Slave-free cocoa, slave-free chocolate, slave-free cacao, pono cocoa, craft chocolate, human-rights, human-rights in cocoa, human-rights in cocoa, ILO, Illegal-labor, child-labor, illegal-labour, child-labour, child-slave labor
Mali and Burkino Faso Ancenstry of the Author

Addressing the issue of sand-winning requires a multi-faceted approach. One promising solution is the implementation of sustainable sand extraction practices. By promoting responsible sand mining techniques, such as sediment trapping and reclamation of mined areas, the adverse impact on cacao farms can be mitigated.


kid plays with cacao
Local Girl Playing w/ Her Farmer Father's Livelihood




Furthermore, exploring alternative construction materials, such as recycled aggregates or industrial byproducts, can help reduce the demand for sand. Investing in research and development of innovative building materials can provide sustainable alternatives while mitigating the negative consequences of sand-winning. You try talking to the developers out of using FREE materials...


Integrated pest management strategies can further safeguard cacao farms. Learn from our online community, certified ChocolateSommelierSchool.org and at ByCraftory.com to get help developing your cocoa farm, orchard, fermentation or post-harvest practices as well as chocolate manufacturing. No matter where you are in the world! To just here more about cacao in Hawaii visit my Keynote page at Ethanswift.com Hawaii has a lot of pests but the cacao industry only experiences a handful. Yes, there is a brand new pest too. And its ugly. Picture here.


cacao, slavefreechocolate, slavefree cocoa, slave-free chocolate.org, queensland beetle,hawaii, hawaiian chocolate, hawaii chocolate, hawaii cacao, hawaii cocoa
Hawaii's Newest Cacao Pest, Low -Risk

Community Perspectives on Sand-Winning


Cacao, cocoa, chocolate, childslavery, slavefree,childslavefree,ponococoa, slavefreechocolate, slavefreecocoa, craft chocolate, ceremonial cacao, chocolate sommelier school, chocolate sommelier course, Slave-free cocoa, slave-free chocolate, slave-free cacao, pono cocoa, craft chocolate, human-rights, human-rights in cocoa, human-rights in cocoa, ILO, Illegal-labor, child-labor, illegal-labour, child-labour, child-slave labor
Certified Slave-Free Cocoa is Hard Work!

The detrimental effects of sand-winning on communities living near cacao farms cannot be ignored. Beyond the environmental impact, excessive sand extraction jeopardizes local water sources, disrupts livelihoods, and strains community cohesion.


One of the key concerns raised by Pono Cocoa community members is the long-term impact of sand-winning on the ecosystem surrounding cacao farms. The extraction of sand can lead to soil erosion, loss of vegetation, and alteration of natural drainage patterns, all of which can have far-reaching consequences for the local flora and fauna. Additionally, the noise and dust generated by sand-winning activities can disrupt wildlife habitats and contribute to air pollution in the area.


As sand extraction intensifies, conflicts may arise over land use, , mosquitos (malaria), potable water access, and economic resources, leading to tensions among community members. This strain on social cohesion can have lasting implications for the overall well-being and resilience of the community, highlighting the need for inclusive and participatory approaches to address these complex challenges.


International Support and Aid for Ghana's Cacao Industry


Cacao, cocoa, chocolate, childslavery, slavefree,childslavefree,ponococoa, slavefreechocolate, slavefreecocoa, craft chocolate, ceremonial cacao, chocolate sommelier school, chocolate sommelier course, Slave-free cocoa, slave-free chocolate, slave-free cacao, pono cocoa, craft chocolate, human-rights, human-rights in cocoa, human-rights in cocoa, ILO, Illegal-labor, child-labor, illegal-labour, child-labour, child-slave labor
We are Based in Hawaii and Ghana but have Volunteers Internationally.

The global community recognizes the importance of Ghana's cacao industry and the threats it faces from sand-winning. International organizations and aid agencies have a pivotal role to play in supporting Ghana's efforts to combat this problem.


The Future of Cacao Farming in Ghana: Challenges and Opportunities


The future of cacao farming in Ghana hangs in the balance. The challenges posed by sand-winning, coupled with climate change and volatile market conditions, have cast a cloud of uncertainty over this vital industry. However, amidst these challenges lie opportunities for innovation and sustainable practices. The opportunity for pono cocoa.


By adopting climate-smart agriculture techniques, cacao farmers can build resilience and adapt to the evolving landscape. International markets can also play a crucial role by supporting sustainably produced cocoa and guaranteeing fair prices to incentivize farmers to continue their vital work in the face of adversity. We can help reporting and accounting of the impact from financial support, incentives, livable wages and added-value cacao. We can make them more money for their beans.


Conclusionary Impact of Sand-Winning on Cacao Farming in Ghana


The impact of sand-winning on cacao farming in Ghana is far-reaching. The loss of fertile land, reduced crop yields, and economic hardships faced by farmers underscore the urgent need for action. It is imperative that all stakeholders, including government bodies, international organizations, and local communities, collaborate to reverse this precarious situation. It's a nightmare. It will take 5 years for cacao to start growing and producing sales again.


In conclusion, the practice of sand-winning has emerged as a formidable threat to cacao farms (and other farms) in Ghana. The cumulative effects of this destructive activity, including environmental degradation and economic hardships, necessitate immediate action. By implementing responsible sand extraction practices, strengthening regulations, and fostering collaboration between various stakeholders, Ghana can safeguard its cacao industry and protect the livelihoods of its farmers. The journey towards a sustainable future for cacao farming in Ghana begins with acknowledging the gravity of the situation and working collectively to find innovative and lasting solutions. These are slave-free solutions proposed by Pono Cocoa.


As we confront the stark reality of sand-winning's impact on Ghana's cacao farms, the urgency to act is undeniable. Pono Cocoa, is striving to end child-slavery in cocoa by providing direct relief to families affected by devastation through "sand-winning" . Your contribution of just buying off our list, can make a profound difference. We invite you to also donate and volunteer with Pono Cocoa and join our online community of advocats and activists. Our volunteers and clients are committed to fostering slave-free practices and ensuring the protection of both the environment and the rights of children. Together, we can forge a path towards a more just and responsible cacao industry. Just add human-rights.


Comments


bottom of page