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.
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We’re absolutely thrilled to share some incredible news: Ethical Consumer has extended its prestigious Best Buy status to the entire True Origin product range and Traidcraft Tea! This recognition previously applied only to our True Origin Kilombero rice, but now it covers all True Origin products — and our beloved Traidcraft Tea as well. This is a huge moment for us — and for everyone who chooses to shop with purpose. The Best Buy label is Ethical Consumer’s highest ethical rating, reserved for brands and products that go above and beyond in areas like environmental impact, workers’ rights, sustainability, and transparency. To receive this mark across our True Origin product range is a powerful endorsement of our ongoing commitment to fairness, justice, and sustainability in global trade – and of the way we do business here in the UK too. Ruairidh Fraser, researcher at Ethical Consumer, said “True Origin are clear ethical leaders in their field, so we're delighted to expand our Best Buy certification to cover all of their branded products. It’s rare to find a company of True Origin’s size which demonstrates such a comprehensive understanding of its social and environmental impact.” He continued “True Origin scored 100/100 for its approach to its supply chain, going above and beyond to ensure that workers’ rights are respected and their communities supported. From agriculture to food waste, they are rejecting greenwash and are instead focused on doing the right thing where it matters." From the fragrant Kilombero rice grown in the heart of Malawi to the rich, responsibly sourced Traidcraft Tea, from the fantastic relishes and spices from South Africa to the exotic Kenyan jams — every product in our portfolio stands for dignity, opportunity, and ethical excellence. We couldn’t have done it without our producer partners, staff and customers. Every time you choose True Origin or Traidcraft, you’re choosing a better world — and now you’ve got Ethical Consumer’s seal of approval to back that choice. 🛒 Explore the full Best Buy-approved range here . 📣 Spread the word and tag us when you share the news! Together, we’re changing trade for good. See Ethical Consumer Best Buy Label