22 Nov 2024
Celebrating Cacao Farmers: A Historic 3-Day Cacao Fiesta
This year's Cacao Fiesta, organized by Puratos, was a landmark event in the history of Kenemmer. For the first time ever, we extended the celebration to a three-day event across all Kenemmer sites, allowing more cacao farmers to partake in the festivities and enjoy the fruits of their labor.
Cacao Fiesta is an event celebrated for farmers under the Cacao-Trace program. Cacao-Trace is Puratos' unique sustainable cocoa program dedicated to partnering directly with farmers. It focuses on mastering the fermentation process to ensure superior taste and quality. The program also provides farmers with a quality premium and a Chocolate Bonus, improving their income and supporting community projects. This initiative highlights the importance of sustainable practices and the vital role farmers play in the cocoa industry.
The fiesta kicked off in Mati City Davao Oriental, where the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anticipation. Distinguished guests graced the event, including our Managing Director of Puratos Philippines, Bernard Poplimont; Managing Director of Puratos Vietnam, Gricha Safarian; Belgium Honorary Consul, Leonilo Claudio; the current Belgium Ambassador to the Philippines, Michel Parys; and the CEO of Kennemer Foods International, Roderick Kutinyu. Their presence underscored the international recognition of our cacao farmers' hard work and dedication. The day was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a sense of community as farmers competed for prizes and enjoyed delicious food. The event concluded with a heartfelt closing prayer from Sarah Mugnier, Product Management and Innovations for Chocolate.
The celebration's enthusiasm continued in Calinan Davao City in Davao Del Sur, starting with an inspiring opening message from Justin Jacquat of Puratos Vietnam. Farmers from the region gathered to participate in various games and activities, celebrating their hard work and dedication. The day featured heartfelt speeches, expressions of gratitude, and a renewed sense of pride among the farmers. A Cacao Trace Refresher was conducted by Jandi Onita, Trading Manager of Kennemer. The event ended with closing remarks from Portia Sugsi, Manager of Kennemer Foods International.
The final day of the fiesta was held in San Isidro Davao Del Norte, where the celebrations reached their peak. The day was filled with more games, prizes, and a grand feast that brought everyone together. The sense of accomplishment and joy was palpable as farmers reflected on their journey and the recognition they received.
A Celebration of Hard Work and Dedication
Throughout the three days, the Cacao Fiesta was a celebration of the hard work, dedication, and resilience of our cacao farmers. The event was not just about games and prizes, but also about acknowledging the vital role that these farmers play in the cacao industry. Their efforts are the backbone of our success, and this fiesta was our way of saying thank you.
Looking Forward
As we look back on this historic event, we are filled with gratitude and pride. The success of the three-day Cacao Fiesta has set a new standard for future celebrations. We are committed to continuing this tradition and finding new ways to honor and support our cacao farmers.
Thank you to everyone who made this event possible, especially our distinguished guests and the hardworking farmers who are the heart and soul of Kenemmer. Here's to many more years of celebrating cacao and the incredible people who make it all possible.
