Update on Grace's Briquette Project

Nicola Taylor • March 30, 2023

First briquette's are produced

Grace’s briquette project continues to make progress despite various set-backs and it is wonderful to see the determination of Grace and the other women to see this project through to fruition. A lengthy delay in achieving mains electricity connection for the buildings did not deter them. The briquette machines were then found to have been supplied with incorrect motors and new motors have had to be purchased. These are now installed and the machines are finally working, so The Balmore Trust was recently able to support Howard Msukwa to go on a fact finding visit to a group in the south of Malawi who are successfully producing briquettes using the same machines. The information gained from this visit has now resulted in Grace’s group successfully producing their first batch of briquettes, a wonderful outcome for everyone involved. As you can see, the women are thrilled that production of briquettes is finally starting and we look forward to the ongoing success of their business.

Despite the delays the project has become a focus for the women in the community to come together, with the buildings being used as a place for the women to gather socially to or to pursue other projects, in itself a worthwhile achievement. Grace continues to inspire the women around her with her commitment, determination and vision of a women’s cooperative.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Mail

Six New Prestigious Great Taste Awards for True Origin Products

By Angus Coull • July 28, 2026

Official recognition for our great tasting fair & fine food products

A woman standing at church fair trade stall with lots of delicious fair trade products available

How to Run a True Origin Fair Trade Stall at Your Church

By Nicola Taylor • July 3, 2026

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.