ICO launches global campaign to highlight coffee’s role in tackling inequality and climate challenges
Announced today in London, the initiative will run throughout the year and seeks to underline coffee’s importance not only as a traded commodity but as a driver of socio-economic progress in producing countries
KAMPALA, February 26, 2026 — The International Coffee Organization [ICO] has launched a major global communications campaign for 2026 under the banner “Coffee is Part of the Solution”, aimed at showcasing the sector’s contribution to sustainable development, climate resilience and inclusive growth.
Announced today in London, the initiative will run throughout the year and seeks to underline coffee’s importance not only as a traded commodity but as a driver of socio-economic progress in producing countries.
Around 12.5 million farming families worldwide depend on coffee for their livelihoods. According to the ICO, the crop plays a central role in shaping rural economies, supporting employment, and strengthening communities across Africa, Latin America and Asia.
Launching the campaign, ICO Executive Director Vanusia Nogueira said coffee has long been “more than a commodity”.
“It is a catalyst for development, dialogue and cooperation,” she said. “Through this campaign, we want to show that when the sector works together, coffee can support resilience, improve livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to solutions.”
The campaign will highlight how coffee production contributes to rural development, carbon sequestration and environmental sustainability. It will also draw attention to the sector’s role in preserving cultural heritage, encouraging innovation, and strengthening ties between producing and consuming nations, as well as between public and private stakeholders.
Over the course of 2026, the ICO plans to publish data, case studies and evidence demonstrating how collaboration between producers, governments, financial institutions, businesses and civil society can amplify coffee’s positive impact. The organisation will use its digital platforms to share institutional videos, insights and partner initiatives, including a flagship campaign video released in four languages on its YouTube channel.
The ICO is also inviting members of the global coffee community to share examples of impact-driven projects using the hashtag #CoffeeIsPartOfTheSolution, with the aim of showcasing measurable results achieved through cooperation across the value chain.
As the global convener of coffee exporting and importing countries, bringing together both public and private sector actors, the ICO says it will continue to mobilise trusted data, finance, knowledge and innovation to support a more resilient and sustainable coffee sector.
https://thecooperator.news/africas-coffee-exports-rise-7-7-percent-in-november-2025-ico-report/
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