Cocoa Farm Management Program

Program Summary

Start Dates

Duration

Fees

Learning Activities

Course Overview

Building Profitable and Sustainable Cocoa Enterprises for the Future

Cocoa is one of the most valuable agricultural commodities in Africa, serving as a major source of income for millions of farmers and playing a critical role in the global chocolate industry. However, climate change, declining soil fertility, pests and diseases, market fluctuations, and inefficient farm management threaten the profitability and sustainability of cocoa farming.

The Cocoa Farm Management Program is a comprehensive and industry-leading program designed to equip cocoa farmers, agribusiness professionals, supply chain managers, and investors with the skills to optimize production, improve financial returns, and implement sustainable and climate-smart cocoa farming practices.

This program ensures that participants develop strategic planning, financial management, market expansion, and value chain optimization skills to thrive in the global cocoa economy.

By the end of the program, graduates will earn a Cocoa Farm Management Certification, positioning them as leaders in the future of sustainable and profitable cocoa agribusiness.

What You Will Achieve

1

Master Cocoa Farm Business Strategy

Learn how to scale operations, increase productivity, and maximize profitability in cocoa farming.

2

Improve Cocoa Yield and Quality

Implement best practices in soil fertility management, pest control, disease prevention, and post-harvest processing.

3

Expand Market Reach & Value Addition

Develop strategies for export readiness, branding, value chain development, and premium market access.

Program Curriculum

Module 1

Strategic Business Planning for Cocoa Farming

Develop scalable and profitable cocoa farming models for smallholder, mid-size, and large-scale farms.
Conduct market analysis to identify high-value cocoa varieties and premium market segments.
Learn how to plan for long-term sustainability, risk management, and farm expansion.
Master business model development and investment strategies for cocoa enterprises.

Module 2

Best Practices in Cocoa Production & Farm Management

Optimize soil fertility management to improve cocoa yield and quality.
Learn pruning, spacing, and shade management techniques for healthy cocoa trees.
Master integrated pest and disease control strategies, including black pod and swollen shoot disease management.
Implement best harvesting and post-harvest handling techniques to improve bean quality and maximize profits.

Module 3

Financial Management & Investment in Cocoa Farming

Develop a budgeting and financial planning strategy to improve farm profitability.
Understand cocoa farm input cost analysis, revenue forecasting, and break-even analysis.
Learn about funding opportunities, grants, and investment sources for cocoa farms.
Develop a long-term financial sustainability plan for your cocoa agribusiness.

Module 4

Supply Chain Optimization & Value Addition in Cocoa Farming

Learn how to optimize the cocoa supply chain from farm to market.
Develop strategies for cocoa processing, chocolate production, and other value-added products.
Understand logistics, warehousing, and export compliance for the international cocoa trade.
Explore certification programs (Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, UTZ) and their market benefits.

Module 5

Climate-Smart & Sustainable Cocoa Farming

Implement agroforestry and regenerative agriculture to increase resilience against climate change.
Learn carbon-smart cocoa farming practices and how to participate in the carbon credit market.
Optimize water conservation techniques, soil health improvement, and biodiversity enhancement.
Align with global sustainability trends in cocoa farming and trade.

Module 6

Cocoa Marketing, Branding & Global Trade Strategies

Develop branding and marketing strategies to sell cocoa at premium prices.
Learn how to build direct trade relationships with chocolate manufacturers and specialty buyers.
Understand global cocoa trade dynamics, pricing mechanisms, and contract negotiation.
Explore digital tools, e-commerce platforms, and social media marketing for cocoa product sales.

Why Study at the Nigerian College of Agribusiness?

No other institution in Africa offers such a comprehensive approach to agribusiness and development sector education as the Nigerian College of Agribusiness. We provide a unique blend of academic rigor, practical expertise, and industry connections. Here, you will learn from experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields and deeply engaged with the latest advancements in their industries.

We leverage interdisciplinary knowledge and the latest research to enhance our programs, ensuring they are relevant and impactful. At NCA, you will continuously engage with thought leaders who are constantly shaping the dynamics of their industries and after graduation, you will be a life-long member of a vibrant alumni community that continually foster cross-disciplinary learning and networking.

Admission Process

STEP 1: Complete the Application for Admission Form for the course

STEP 2: A non-refundable application fee of N20,000 applies and will be deducted from the tuition upon enrollment. This is payable into
Zenith Bank
Account Name: Nigerian College of Agribusiness
Account Number: 1228461510

STEP 3: Attach receipt of Application fee with your highest academic credential and submit to: [email protected]

STEP 4: Upon successful evaluation of your application, you will receive your Admission Letter indicating acceptance into the program. The Letter will also contain details of enrollment into the Course.
Click on the link below to fill the application form for this course

Tuition Fees

Local: N450,000

International Students: $400

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