Company Performance Metrics
- Ferdi van Heerden: Founder and CEOPast Role: ReDI School of Digital Integration, co-Founder and COO
Deep Parsana: Senior Project Manager
“Cooko” means “Source” or “Wellspring” in the proto-Bantu language of West Africa. This reflects the spirit of the company. We aim to go to the source, to work from the ground up to improve the livelihood of Cacao farmers.
Our key innovation changes the way that cacao is sourced. Not only does it provide a better quality bean, we also provide
first-mile traceability. This has been identified as the key factor in transforming the industry into a more sustainable and equitable economic force.
The farmer benefits: In one day they can make the money that would have required 10 days labour.
The industry benefits: International traders are increasingly frustrated with low-grade cacao, contaminated with everything from stones to unfermented beans. By changing the first step in the process we lock the beans into a controlled refinement process.
The consumer benefits: When you see the source-fermented™ label, you will know that your cacao (or chocolate) has been equitably sourced.
