Burkina Faso Takes on Global Challenges Through Fair Trade
Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso – The vibrant energy of fair trade filled the House of Culture in Bobo-Dioulasso this week as the 4th National Fair Trade Days kicked off. From November 27-28, 2024, stakeholders from across Burkina Faso gathered under the theme "Fair trade facing the challenges of insecurity and climate change in Burkina Faso," focusing on how ethical trade models can empower communities in the face of pressing global issues.
The National Fair Trade Platform of Burkina Faso (PNCE-BF) spearheaded the event, aiming to shed light on the unique benefits of fair trade for producers and consumers alike. Issaka Sommandé, President of PNCE-BF, highlighted the event’s dual purpose. "We want to discuss the obstacles posed by insecurity and climate change and work together to find solutions," he explained, adding, "Equally important is raising public awareness about fair trade and its incredible products."
Sommandé emphasized the critical difference between fair trade and conventional trade. “In fair trade," he said, "the producer or processor sets the price based on their production costs and other essential factors. In contrast, conventional trade often leaves producers at the mercy of traders who dictate prices." This human-centered approach, Sommandé stressed, ensures respect for both human and environmental rights, promoting sustainable production practices. He also underscored the role of contracts between buyers and producers, as well as a “social premium,” an additional payment that benefits the community through development projects.
The National Days of Fair Trade (JNCE) are not only a platform for discussion but also a chance for hands-on learning and empowerment. As Sommandé noted, "We have awareness-raising programs, advocate for stronger policies, and provide training to reinforce the capabilities of fair trade actors. Because fair trade is governed by specific norms, principles, and standards."
Abdoul Koura, representing the Burkinabe Minister in charge of trade, expressed his enthusiastic support for the initiative, stating, "These JNCE events are vital in promoting fair trade, allowing producers and processors to sell their products at just and appropriate prices." He commended the organizers for choosing Bobo-Dioulasso as the host city, highlighting its significance as a hub for economic activity and cultural exchange.
Dieudonné Sow, representing the Belgian Development Agency (ENABEL), further explained their support, saying, "JNCE is a powerful tool to address issues related to community strengthening, ensuring decent incomes, improving working conditions, and empowering women." He emphasized ENABEL’s commitment to supporting Burkina Faso’s socio-economic initiatives and fostering collaboration between the two countries.
The National Fair Trade Days in Burkina Faso offer a compelling example of how ethical trade practices can not only improve the lives of producers but contribute to a more sustainable and equitable global economy.
## Burkina Faso Takes on global Challenges Through Fair trade: A Conversation with Bobo-Dioulasso Producers
**world-Today-News.com** sits down with Nadia Sawadogo, a leading cocoa producer adn member of a Fair Trade cooperative in bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, to discuss how her community is leveraging fair trade principles to tackle global challenges.
**WTN:** Nadia, thank you for joining us. Can you tell our readers about the importance of cocoa production for Burkina Faso’s economy and the challenges faced by cocoa farmers?
**Nadia Sawadogo:** Cocoa is a vital crop for Burkina Faso, providing livelihoods for thousands of families like mine. However, we face meaningful challenges, including fluctuating global market prices, climate change impacts like droughts and pests, and limitations in accessing resources like fertilizer and training.
**WTN:** How did Fair Trade enter the picture, and what difference has it made for you and your fellow producers?
**Nadia Sawadogo:** Fair Trade has been a game-changer. By guaranteeing a minimum price for our cocoa, nonetheless of market fluctuations, it provides us with greater financial stability.
Beyond the price, Fair Trade emphasizes social and environmental responsibility. Our cooperative receives a Fair Trade premium which we reinvest in community projects like building schools, health clinics, and providing training on sustainable farming practices. This empowers us to build a better future for ourselves and generations to come.
**WTN:** How does Fair Trade specifically address global challenges like climate change and poverty?
**Nadia Sawadogo:** Fair Trade emphasizes sustainable farming practices that help us adapt to climate change. We learn about soil conservation techniques, agroforestry, and water management strategies that reduce our environmental footprint.
Furthermore, by providing a fair income, Fair Trade allows us to invest in our farms, improve our livelihoods, and break the cycle of poverty. This not only benefits us directly but also strengthens the local economy and fosters resilience within our communities.
**WTN:** What message would you like to share with consumers interested in supporting Fair Trade?
**Nadia Sawadogo:** choosing Fair Trade cocoa is not just about buying a delicious product; it’s about making a conscious decision to support a fairer and more sustainable world.By choosing Fair Trade, you are directly contributing to the well-being of farmers like myself, their families, and our communities.
Together,we can create a world where cocoa production benefits both people and the planet.
**WTN:** Thank you, Nadia, for sharing your valuable insights.
