Armed groups target cocoa plantations in eastern DRC

Armed groups in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are increasingly targeting cocoa plantations, particularly in North Kivu. The M23 rebel group has seized large areas, including Goma, while the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) have committed violent acts that hinder farmers' access to their fields. Cocoa production in the DRC is small, contributing just over one percent of global supply. However, its rising prices have attracted smuggling networks to Uganda, complicating the situation for local farmers. Corruption and theft by both rebels and soldiers further threaten the cocoa trade. The DRC has allowed Ugandan troops to assist in combating the ADF, which has improved trade routes. However, this has led to concerns about Ugandan buyers imposing low prices and undermining local cocoa quality, risking the loss of organic certification.