Re-opening of Covid-19 Appeal for Producers
Nicola Taylor • August 21, 2020
Chair of JTS, Mary Popple, explains why we have to re-open the appeal
The Scotland Malawi Partnership have been holding a series of information exchange Zoom meetings with health professionals, academics and others in Malawi, and we in Scotland who have projects, supplier partners and colleagues in Malawi. At the last meeting we were informed that Malawi experienced a spike in Coronavirus cases following the rallies held before the successful election at the end of June. Worryingly we were told that the country has few COVID-19 testing kits, that there is still a concern that people, particularly those in rural areas are unaware of preventative measures that can be taken, and that the very poor do not have the resources to protect themselves.
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We are in frequent contact with the leaders of the Kilombero rice farmers in Karonga who have confirmed the very real fear that in this remote part of Malawi, were the virus to take hold, the results could be devastating. They tell us that many people in their remote community are still not aware of the seriousness of this disease and what they can do to help prevent it. Although we have already raised £5000 to provide buckets, sanitisers, masks and some radio advertising we are again appealing for help. This time the specifics are around raising awareness to enable local people to help prevent the spread of COVID in their communities and following up with the provision of masks. Our colleagues in KASFA are putting together a programme of awareness raising, visiting remote communities with local health officials and providing masks for all members of farmers’ families.
Please help us to help them ...
A Fair Trade stall is about so much more than selling tea, coffee and chocolate. Every purchase supports smallholder farmers and producers who are working incredibly hard to build sustainable livelihoods in the face of climate change, rising fuel costs and an unpredictable global market. For many of the communities we work with, having reliable customers is essential. By running a True Origin stall at your church, you become part of that support network, helping to create regular demand for products that often aren't available in supermarkets or high street shops. Whether your church is passionate about global justice, caring for creation or simply making a practical difference, a Fair Trade stall is a simple but powerful way to turn those values into action. Start Small You don't need a huge team or a large budget to get started. Begin by talking with your church leaders about the idea. Many churches are happy to provide a small loan or donation to purchase initial stock, particularly if it can be repaid gradually as sales grow. Remember that most of the income from a stall is best reinvested into buying more stock rather than raising money for church funds. This helps keep the stall sustainable and ensures producers continue to receive orders. If you're new to running a stall, don't worry, you won't be on your own. The True Origin team and experienced Fair Traders are always happy to share advice and practical tips.
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