Within the expansive canvas of the global fair trade movement, Fairtrade NAPP emerges as a dedicated participant with a vision of a world where justice and sustainable development are at the heart of trade structures and practices. The core aspiration is to foster an environment where every individual can not only maintain a decent livelihood but also develop their full human potential. As an integral part of this collective endeavour, it takes pride in its longstanding commitment to assisting producers through guidance in the implementation of fairer and sustainable practices. In the pursuit of a fair and dignified world, Fairtrade NAPP stands as a beacon, championing principles that resonate with the essence of justice, equity, and holistic human development.
Hence, multiple activities were conducted by Fairtrade NAPP among 4 producer organizations in the Philippines to provide technical support, coaching and mentoring, and help monitor operations of producer organization related to Fairtrade Premium management and spending which will help them observe transparency, accountability and voluntary best practices. 10 SPOs met virtually for the Country Network Planning for 2024 Budget. Various tools were also distributed among Malita Organic Fairtrade Farmers Association members.
In collaboration with Santa Cruz Organic Fairtrade Farmers Association (SCOFFA), Malita Organic Fairtrade Farmers Association (MOFFA), and Davao del Norte Fairtrade Coconut Farmers Association (DFCFA), the “Thought Leadership Towards a Resilient Fairtrade Farmers Organization – FDP Annual Assessment and Planning Workshop” unfolded. Attended by 15 participants, including Board of Directors and Advisory Board members, the event, co-organized by Fairtrade NAPP, centered on the themes of thought leaders who are pioneers of ideas and insights that shapes the future of their industries. This three-day seminar addressed the challenges faced by producers while evaluating their operational capacity and needs.
Exploring into the current state of Fairtrade Coconut small producer organizations, the workshop strategically gathered crucial information to address specific issues hindering sustainable development.
A workshop to analyse the result of the member’s need assessment survey was conducted to assist SPO leaders in identifying priority areas for Fairtrade Premium investment while ensuring business operation continuity in the midst of inflation and fluctuating prices of staple commodities. Once the analysis and prioritization were done, the participants drafted the Fairtrade Development Plan. It is a documentation of activities that the organization plans to fund with the Fairtrade Premium or other sources of funds with the intention of promoting the progress of the business, organization, members, workers, community and/or environment. During the workshop, the facilitator also emphasized the importance of creating awareness and approval of the General Assembly about the Fairtrade Premium Utilization.
Thought leadership represents a valuable asset for any industry or organization seeking innovation and growth. By challenging conventional thinking, effectively communicating ideas, and embracing lifelong learning, thought leaders shape the future by inspiring others with their unique insights. Hence, the workshop with the mission to empower officers to be thought leaders, sought to enhance their capabilities in resource management to foster a more resilient producer organization.
“For the past 3 days, I have learned the basics of financial management, budgeting and planning. I am happy to support our officers in complying with all Fairtrade requirements. But as officers, we need to be knowledgeable and experienced so we can uplift the lives of our members by investing our Fairtrade Premium for their needs. We need to practice what we have learned here. I am proud of my organization because we are united to improve and learn to manage our operations by ourselves.” – Happy Jane Colina, Malita Organic Fairtrade Farmers Association (MOFFA).
The Coconut Cluster, through strategic planning, is advancing towards a more equitable coconut industry by proposing quarterly meetings and spearheading the Mangrove project under Fairtrade Germany. With the help of such regular activities, the Fairtrade Coconut producing organizations has embarked on a transformative journey by taking substantial strides toward fostering an equitable coconut industry. The strategies outlined and discussed during the workshop serve as a roadmap for shaping a future where fairness and sustainability lie at the heart of Fairtrade practices. As part of the actionable outcomes, the organizations propose the establishment of quarterly meetings to facilitate the formation of a product network, providing a platform for sharing insights and addressing challenges collectively. Furthermore, they are planning to spearhead the implementation of the Mangrove project under Fairtrade Germany.
“I have never imagined that I will be able to complete our workshop even if I did not complete my education. The only limit is ourselves. The program and training methodology is easy to understand and follow. We are grateful to our training facilitators,Fairtrade NAPP, for making it easy for us to follow and for their patience to teach us one by one. There are practices that we need to change and improve. Whatever we plan to do, we must inform our members, that is transparency. If our members know our goodness and the work that we do, wherever we go, they can uplift and support us. The coconut producers in Mindanao must continue to unite and support the development of one another. Fairtrade taught me the importance of member’s engagement, democratic leadership and create transparent process for my members so it will be easy to coordinate to achieve our common goal. What we are doing now is not only for
ourselves but for the people, for the members who believe in.” – Gerry Godoy, Santa Cruz Organic Fairtrade Farmers Association (SCOFFA).
