What is Fair Trade?
Fair Trade is a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect, that seeks greater equity in international trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers especially in the South.
Fair Trade organizations have a clear commitment to Fair Trade as the principal core of their mission. They, backed by consumers, are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness raising and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade. They can be recognized by the WFTO logo.
Fair Trade is more than just trading: it proves that greater justice in world trade is possible. It highlights the need for change in the rules and practice of conventional trade and shows how a successful business can also put people first.
Naysayers say there really ain' t no thing as Fair in this big bad world anymore... BUT we can make a change if we try. And each effort that improves the lives of the poorest and those who cannot speak for themselves is a step towards showing it is worth caring, and yes, just perhaps the hopeless will start feeling things can indeed be fair!
We stand for Fair Trade of the highest possible standards. We have a world filled with unemployment, disease stricken and yet, what do the Big Boys do? They import a huge amount from countries whose citizens live below the bread line, paying them peanuts, to feed the richest, cloth the middle class, while they rake in humongous profits. Now as the British would say: "That's just not cricket!"
► Children produce most of the clothing made FOR children for most of the largest chain stores in the World.
► You can get anything cheap from China (Um, no brainer here). Have you read about their human right's abuses lately?
QUESTION:
► Isn't it time that consumers become informed and say "No more!"?
So come on, and make your voice heard. Speak up for Fair Trade!
What are we doing?
Hooligans Kids strongly supports Fair Trade practices in every aspect of the supply chain. Through our Co-operative we have set in place dialogue, they have a say in the final selling price of the clothing. Small teams work from home and earn extra income. Our co-operative earn higher wages than their industry counterparts through incentives and self management.
We appeal to retailers to educate the consumer on the values of Fair Trade.
All wholesale partners are expected to actively promote Fair Trade .
Our Fair Trade documentation verify our membership here at WFTO
What can you do?
Check the labels of goods you buy. Do not be lured by cheap clothing made in China. Write letters and emails to your local chain stores. Discuss with your friends. Every small bit helps to spread the news about ethical trading.
Do not be fooled by claims of "green" products. Do your research on companies. They should be able to produce official registration documents.
Why Fair Trade?
MEMBER OF FAIR TRADE AFRICA
The Cooperation for Fair Trade in Africa
COFTA is the Africa Regional Chapter for the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO) and as such the network of all registered WFTO members and registered Fair Trade Organizations in Africa, as well as those seeking or working towards WFTO registration.
Their overall mission as a network is to improve the sustainable livelihoods of African producers through partnerships that advocate for Fair Trade.
COFTA, a membership organization, therefore strives to strengthen its members' capacity to benefit from global markets by assisting them to develop quality products and providing them with market access support through shared efforts and resources within the principles and structures of Fair Trade. Visit: www.cofta.org for more information.
