About us
Cameroon’s Cocoa Legacy and COOKO’s Innovation
With a century-long tradition of cultivating fine-flavor Criollo and Trinitario cocoa, Cameroon stands out for its rich genetic heritage and sustainable agroforestry practices. Building on this legacy, Cooko combines tradition with innovation through our Source Fermented Cacao® process, delivering exceptional quality, traceability, and sustainability while empowering local farmers.
The Significance of the Ntui R&D Centre
Cooko’s Research and Development Center in Ntui is the heart of our innovation. Strategically located in central Cameroon, just 50 kilometers north of Yaoundé, the centre bridges tradition and technology. It serves as a hub for refining our Source Fermented Cacao® process, preserving the unique flavour profiles of Cameroonian cocoa, and driving sustainable practices. By partnering directly with local farmers, the Ntui R&D Centre ensures quality, traceability, and continuous improvement at every step of the cocoa journey.
Meet the Team
Ferdi van Heerden
Founder & CEO
Deep Parsana
Senior Project Manager
Christian Ngatcha
QA coordinator
Desmond Bessong
Stores Accountant
Michael Rolle
Advisor
Rudric Neba
Senior Supply Chain Manager
Michelle Töllner
Executive Team Assistant
Meline Ndimakulung
Operations Coordinator
Epanty Mbanda
Country Manager
Collins Mesape
Field Operations
Rahel Manga
Accountant Cameroon
Jorina Bruwer
Team Coordinator
Silke Elwers
VP - Product Integrity
Melvis Tankoh
People & Administration Lead
Chrysantus Fomelong
Field Logistics
Jonathan Dzemnwi
Quality & HSE Coordinator
Our Location
Located 50 kilometers north of Yaoundé, Ntui is at the heart of Cooko’s mission to preserve and elevate Cameroonian cocoa.
