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WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A COFTA MEMBER

Why Join

Become part of the African contribution in the Fair Trade Movement, Membership is open to organizations as well as individuals. All members are encouraged to work towards Fair Trade Organization (FTO) registration done through the International Fair Trade Association - IFAT. IFAT is the global network in which COFTA is a part, and it provides access to the use of the FTO mark.

Fair Trade for us means having a business that puts people first, and that works to build relationships that have greater impact with regards to supporting to alleviate poverty, and working with communities to enrich and uplift the lives of others. To become a fair trade organization, you must prove that you:

• Trade honestly
• Pay a Fair Price
• Work with people who are marginalised
• Exchange and build skills
• Promote greater equality and empowerment for all
• Protect Children's rights
• Respect the environment
• Work to have long term impact. It is not just about buying and leaving, but making sure that a community or family, no matter how small, has had their lives improved through continued relationship with your business

As a member of COFTA, by being registered Fair Trade Organizations, or organizations working along Fair Trade principles, you are able to benefit from the support and assistance of many organizations that provide services to Fair Trade Organizations and organizations that choose to work within the guidelines of Fair Trade, such as capacity development, finance and market access support, also potential buyers often consult COFTA first for producers who can supply them with various products.