Development of the Cacao Sector in West Klaaskreek by Tan Bun Skrati N.V. and the LOKEO Foundation

The Foundation for Agricultural Development in Klaaskreek and Surrounding Areas (LOKEO) is focused on developing the region west of Klaaskreek. Since 2013, the organization has been actively involved in projects in the area such as establishing infrastructure and setting up experimental gardens. One of the experimental gardens in the area is the Cacao Education Garden. In collaboration with Tan Bun Skrati N.V., efforts are underway to advance the cacao industry in this region.

Tan Bun Skrati N.V. is a small-scale cacao processor that handles the harvest through to the final product, using only Surinamese cacao. The company has been in operation since 2010. Tan Bun Skrati N.V. connected with the LOKEO foundation through its chairman, Sandino Rathling.

The LOKEO foundation and Tan Bun Skrati N.V. are currently collaborating to develop the cacao industry in West Klaaskreek, which includes the Cacao Education Garden. This partnership aims to provide LOKEO with knowledge and advice on cacao to further develop the Cacao Education Garden.

"We contribute labor and expertise to support the area's development," said Ellen Ligteringen, director of Tan Bun Skrati N.V.

The first phase of the Cacao Education Garden was funded by the Suriname Environmental and Mining Foundation (SEMIF).

Ellen Terlingen further stated that the future collaboration between the LOKEO foundation and Tan Bun Skrati N.V. looks promising. They have begun designing and installing information boards in the Cacao Education Garden, which are being funded by the DNB Fonds/Cultuurfonds. Additionally, work is underway to develop agroforestry cacao cultivation and processing within the West Klaaskreek project.