Colombia is confronting a crisis with cocaine production at an all-time high and is trialing a scheme where farmers are paid to replace coca with cocoa and coffee. Approximately 4,000 families, including Alirio Caicedo and his son, are participating under a $14.4 million initiative to eradicate coca on 45,000 hectares in conflict-ridden areas. However, many farmers face uncertainty over the viability of new crops and potential threats from armed groups reliant on coca, making their rural transition challenging.
"Under the new scheme, farmers like the Caicedos receive initial payments of about $300 to begin cultivating coffee, but worries about guerrilla retaliation remain."
"The initiative is part of a $14.4m effort to reduce Colombia's coca crop area by targeting 45,000 hectares in regions plagued by armed conflict."
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