7 agosto 2026
Financial management training supports revolving fund for cocoa communities in Ghana
For many farmers and small business owners in Ghana’s Asunafo-Asutifi landscape, a notebook, a cash book and a simple stock record can make the difference between a loan that is used well and one that becomes difficult to repay. That was the focus of a recent financial management training organised by Proforest for 65 participants from six project communities, including Adiepena, Asumura and Anyimaye.
Building financial confidence before loans are disbursed
The training is an important step in preparing cocoa-growing communities for the effective roll-out of the revolving fund under the Walmart Foundation-funded Building Deforestation-free Climate Resilient Cocoa Landscape programme. The fund is designed to expand access to low-interest credit for livelihood activities and on-farm investments, helping community members strengthen their income sources while supporting more resilient cocoa landscapes.
Participants discussed practical financial management topics such as identifying viable businesses, keeping records at group and household levels, tracking stock and farm inputs, and using a cash book to record sales and purchases. These skills are essential to the revolving fund because they can help borrowers plan better, understand their costs, monitor profits and repay loans on time so that the fund can continue to serve more people.
Simple record keeping can help farmers and small businesses grow
For traders, the training brought new attention to everyday decisions that affect profit. “I have learned that I need to record every time I add new goods to my stock,” said one participant. “Before, I only checked what I bought and sold on market days. Now I understand that good records can help me know whether my business is growing.”
Farmers also reflected on the importance of knowing the real cost of production. “I did not know I had to write down the cost of pesticides, labour and other farm expenses,” said another participant.
When I sell my produce, these records will help me calculate my profit and plan for the next season.
By building financial management skills before loans are disbursed, Proforest is supporting communities to manage the revolving fund responsibly from the start. Strong records will help participants track money coming in and going out, manage stock more effectively and make informed decisions about cocoa farming, trading and other small enterprises.
Supporting climate-resilient livelihoods through responsible credit
As the revolving fund grows, this foundation of financial discipline will be critical to keeping it active and accessible for others. For participants, the training was not only about record keeping; it was about gaining the confidence to use credit wisely, protect their livelihoods and invest in a more secure future for their families and communities.
