The 10th General Assembly of the Association of Robusta Coffees of Africa and Madagascar (ACRAM) closed Friday in Lomé, under the leadership of President Enselme Gouthon.  The deliberations were marked by crucial resolutions aimed at propelling ACRAM towards a new era of sustainable development for the coffee industry in Africa and Madagascar.

 The discussions revealed a promising future for ACRAM, marking a decisive step in its commitment to sustainable development.  The general assembly praised the activities carried out by the president and the executive secretary, giving a special mention to President Gouthon for his recent election at the head of the International Coffee organization.

 Faced with administrative and financial challenges, the assembly scrutinized the 2022-2023 financial report.  Members recommended the appointment of an auditor for an operational audit, emphasizing the importance of strengthening the transparency and financial management of ACRAM.

 The major resolution was the adoption of the resource mobilization consultant’s report, marking the start of the process of transforming ACRAM into the Robusta Coffee Development Agency.  Members supported the extension of the consultant’s mission to ensure continued mobilization of the resources necessary for the development of the coffee industry.

 A special gender-focused resolution aims to promote the integration of women’s groups and associations, placing particular emphasis on the inclusion of young people.  The assembly recommended close collaboration between the executive secretariat and the president of the gender committee to make this progress a reality.

Enselme Gouthon concluded by highlighting the fruitful nature of the week of activities, with enriching exchanges and promising prospects for the coffee industry in Africa and Madagascar.

This general assembly followed a series of intensive training courses organized by the International Trade Center, in partnership with the Coordination Committee for the Coffee and Cocoa Sectors of Togo and ACRAM, benefiting the gathered exporters and young baristas from Togo.