In a concerted effort to improve the lives of children and families in cocoa-growing communities, Twinings Ovaltine has launched several impactful initiatives in the villages of Touoba and Yakéalé in Man, Côte d'Ivoire. These projects focus on educational support, essential documentation, and community development, highlighting the company’s dedication to creating lasting change.

Providing Essential Documentation

In Touoba, Mireille Déli Boh reflects on a significant milestone for her 11-year-old son, Anicet, a CE2 student. Holding his newly issued birth certificate, she recalls the challenges she faced in obtaining this critical document. "When he was born, his father passed away. I tried to register him at the sub-prefecture in Gouiné, but the cost was prohibitive, and I had to abandon the effort," she explained. This document is crucial not only for school registration but also for participating in exams.

Thanks to Twinings Ovaltine’s support, many children in Touoba and Yakéalé now have their birth certificates. This intervention addresses a key barrier to education, as highlighted by Prosper Yao Yao, Director of Yakéalé Public Primary School. He noted that issues such as parents lacking their own birth certificates, the loss of parents, and financial constraints often hinder the registration process.

Augustin Ouédraogo, a cocoa farmer and father of seven, including 10-year-old Viviane, shared his relief upon receiving her birth certificate. “I couldn’t afford to get it before. With Twinings Ovaltine’s help, she now has her certificate, and I’m very grateful. I am now committed to securing her sister’s certificate as well,” he said.

Supporting Education with School Kits

In addition to birth certificates, Twinings Ovaltine provided school kits at the start of the school year. These kits, which include a school bag, notebooks, pens, a geometry set, and textbooks, have brought joy to many children and eased the financial burden on their families.

Sophie Dan, a 12-year-old student in class CM2, expressed her excitement: “Receiving the kit made me very happy because it meant my parents had fewer expenses. I’m now motivated to work hard and make them proud in my end-of-year exams.”

Her father, Achille Dan, shared his relief: “The kit reduced our expenses. With the money we saved, I was able to buy her a second school uniform.” Josué Farama, father of 11-year-old Jean Roger, also appreciated the support. “When I returned from a trip and found out about the school kit, I was thrilled. It saved us money, allowing me to buy him clothes,” he noted.

Valérie Blé, treasurer of the Child Protection Committee, praised the impact of the school kits, noting that some children previously lacked basic school supplies. “Some used to carry their slate in their hands. The kits have brought immense joy and practical benefits,” she said.

Investing in Community Development

Since February 2022, Twinings Ovaltine has been actively involved in various community development actions beyond education. The company funded the construction of a borehole at the Public Primary School of Touoba, providing essential access to clean water for students and teachers.

Furthermore, Twinings Ovaltine has supported the establishment of Child Protection Committees to raise awareness about child labor and set up Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs) for women. These associations help community members develop income-generating activities, with successful initiatives including the cultivation of a half-hectare okra plantation and 1.5 hectares of corn in Yakéalé.

Through these comprehensive efforts, Twinings Ovaltine demonstrates a strong commitment to enhancing education, safeguarding children, and fostering sustainable community development in cocoa-producing regions.