France, April 12 -- Cotton is a lifeline for Africa - bringing in foreign currency and providing jobs for millions of people. But 20 years after the African Cotton Producers' Association was founded, growers say the industry is under threat and needs urgent change.

Across the African continent, around 20 million people grow cotton, producing 3 million tonnes each year, often using simple tools and methods.

African cotton is considered high quality, partly because it is handpicked. But despite this, African farmers have little power in the global market.

"African cotton producers have to accept international prices," said Koussouwe Kouroufei, a farmer from Togo who is president of theAssociation of African Cotton Producers (AProCA).

"T...