Cacao cultivation in agroforestry systems in Bocas del Toro and Comarcas

The project focuses on improving cocoa cultivation practices through agroecological technologies that increase production and resource efficiency in agroforestry systems. Focused primarily on small-scale indigenous farmers, the project seeks to develop and validate sustainable technologies, addressing challenges such as low productivity, inadequate nutrient and disease management, and cadmium contamination. It will include the generation of methodologies for the morphological description of criollo cacao, the determination of nutritional needs, and cadmium absorption, in order to register a new cultivar and improve crop management. In addition, models will be established for cocoa fermentation and drying, and management guides and training will be developed for technicians and producers. The project seeks not only to raise the standard of living of local producers, but also to strengthen Panama's position in the international fine aroma cocoa market.