Goma Showcases Resilience of Congolese Coffee and Cocoa Producers Despite Security

Goma, North Kivu, July 7, 2026 - Coffee and cocoa producers from North and South Kivu are highlighting the potential of Congolese agriculture at the third edition of Best of Congo Cooperatives, an initiative aimed at promoting high-quality local products and attracting international investment despite persistent insecurity in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Launched on July 2 in Goma by Congo Agri Platform in partnership with African Coffee Connect, the program brings together agricultural cooperatives working to strengthen the visibility and competitiveness of Congolese coffee and cocoa on global markets. This year's edition features 34 Arabica coffee micro-lots from cooperatives in North and South Kivu, prepared for direct international auction. For the first time, the initiative also includes cocoa, with 34 lots representing different processing methods, including fully washed, natural, and anaerobic fermentation techniques. Held under the theme “Business Climate: Promoting Investment,” the event aims to position coffee and cocoa as strategic sectors for economic growth while encouraging investment in agricultural value chains. Agriculture Under Pressure from Insecurity The gathering takes place in a difficult environment for producers in eastern DRC, where armed conflicts, limited infrastructure, and unreliable electricity continue to affect agricultural activities. Despite these challenges, cooperatives from several territories continue producing crops mainly destined for international markets. Around twenty cooperatives from North and South Kivu participated in the event, representing producers from areas including Kabare, Kalehe, Idjwi, Masisi, Rutshuru, Beni, Lubero, as well as the cities of Beni and Butembo. For farmers, insecurity remains one of the greatest obstacles to expanding production. Bisimwa Lusari Leaandre, a coffee producer from Bushumba in Kabare Territory, explained that insecurity has reduced access to farmland and affected harvests. He called for stronger security measures to allow farmers to return safely to their fields and maintain production levels. Infrastructure and Financing Challenges Beyond security concerns, sector representatives highlighted structural challenges limiting the growth of coffee and cocoa industries. Emmanuel Ntirata Ntale, African Coffee Connect's country representative, emphasized that Congolese Arabica coffee from the Kivu highlands enjoys international recognition, while cocoa production is also showing strong potential. However, he noted that poor road networks, limited electricity access, and difficulties obtaining financing continue to slow sector development. He also stressed the need for agricultural policies capable of attracting long-term investors and creating a more stable business environment. Building International Market Access Ghislain Kamondo, Executive Director of Congo Agri Platform, said that insecurity has also affected certification processes, with some international inspection companies unable to operate in certain areas due to security restrictions. Nevertheless, he highlighted the resilience of producers, noting increased participation in the program and growing interest in cocoa development. Congo Agri Platform, which brings together more than 34 agricultural cooperatives, plays a key role in organizing supply chains, improving product quality, and connecting producers with international buyers. Through the Best of Congo Cooperatives initiative, coffee and cocoa production is supported through traceability systems, including GPS-based tracking and geolocation of farms, helping producers meet international market standards. Toward More Inclusive Agricultural Growth The 2026 edition places particular emphasis on sustainable value chains and the participation of women, young people, and indigenous communities in agricultural development. Despite insecurity and economic constraints, producers and cooperatives are seeking to demonstrate that eastern DRC's agricultural sector remains capable of competing internationally, provided that security, infrastructure, and investment challenges are addressed.