We source directly from over 185,000 farming families, and a vast network of local traders. Our offices, processing facilities and warehousing spaces are located strategically to support our growers and to connect us quickly to our markets.
During our tenure, we’ve made major investments in infrastructure, enhancing employment opportunities. We actively support the development of the sectors we participate in, and the sustainability of the livelihoods of those involved.
CMIA- BCI-certified cotton
Our cotton operations were established in 2009 under the brand of SECO.
We source from more than 16,500 farmers in over 400 co-operatives. Since 2013 our cotton is 100% CMIA- BCI-certified. We process at our gins in Ouangolodougou and Ferkessédougou.
Our approach to helping cotton famers improve their yield has been the basis of sustainability programmes globally. Between 2009 and 2018, farmers increased their average holding from 1.8 Ha to 4.2 Ha and their yield from 626 Kg per Ha in 2009 to 1,150 Kg per Ha in 2018. Food crop production has also increased and both contribute to more sustainable livelihoods.
To read more about cotton operations globally click below.
Rubber sourcing and processing
Rubber exports out of Côte d’Ivoire have almost tripled since 2010. Experts estimate over 50% of planted land is yet to yield, guaranteeing future sector expansion.
90% of rubber is produced by smallholders. We source from over 6,000 independent farmers and members of more than 20 co-operatives. We work closely with them to ensure the development of the sector.
In 2015 we acquired a crumb rubber processing facility in Aniassué, followed by a second factory in PK38 in 2017 under the brand SAIC. We also operate seven buying units across growing areas. Collectively our facilities generate valuable employment opportunities in the region.
To read more about rubber operations globally click below.
Through our group company ofi, we’ve made major investments in processing facilities for coffee, cocoa and cashew, providing employment for thousands of nationals, many of whom are women.
Since 2006, Mantra, our shipping and logistics company, has been providing warehousing, clearing and forwarding export and import solutions – both internally and directly to customers. We have two major port hubs in Abidjan and San Pedro, and we operate 14 warehouses.
Growing responsibly is our ethos. We actively engage with our growing communities to improve livelihoods and community wellbeing, and to safeguard natural resources. In CDI we support over 185,000 farmer families. Our sustainability approach is complemented by third-party certifications, including Cotton Made in Africa (CMiA), Rainforest Alliance, Fair Trade, Organic, UTZ Certified and 4C.
We work closely with government bodies and industry associations to provide full assurance to our customers of our products’ quality and traceability.
Our partnerships include the Conseil Café Cacao (CCC), Conseil Coton Anacarde (CCA), Confederation Générale des Entreprises de Côte d’Ivoire (CGECI), African Cashew Alliance (ACA), APROCOT-CI (cotton ginners association). We are trusted partners of development agencies, NGOs and a range of programmes, including the ComCashew (formerly African Cashew Initiative) and Competitive African Cotton initiative (COMPACI).
Our proprietary data collection solution (OFIS) provides customers with full traceability and an unparalleled understanding of who supplies their raw materials to farm level.
Olam is one of the largest employers in the country, with over 5,000 employees, including sub-contracted workers. More than 90% are Ivorian and 45% are women.
We partner with schools, universities and professional associations to attract talent and offer meaningful career paths. We offer tailored training and coaching through programmes such as Growing African Leaders, Graduate Engineering, Finance Leaders, and our Leadership Development Programme to help individuals maximise their potential.
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