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AIM at Afrikadag 2023

Date & Time:

November 18, 2023

A Day of Impact: AIM at Afrikadag 2023

On November 18, 2023, Africa in Motion Foundation (AIM) launched it’s advocacy program ‘Equal Trade Alliance’ during the Afrikadag—an event that has, for over 25 years, been the foremost platform for connecting Africa and international cooperation with Dutch audiences. Held annually, Afrikadag attracts a vibrant mix of policymakers, academics, NGOs, and engaged citizens, providing an unparalleled stage for discussing Africa’s most pressing issues and collaborative opportunities.

This year, AIM had the honor of presenting its groundbreaking Equal Trade Certification model during an interactive workshop. Designed to address the structural inequalities in global trade, the Equal Trade model introduces innovative solutions that empower producers in Africa by ensuring they receive a fair share of profits from their labor and resources.

A Platform for Change

The highlight of the session was a powerful address by Samira Rafaela, Member of the European Parliament and a vocal advocate for fair trade and sustainable development. In her inspiring speech, Rafaela underscored the urgent need for alternative economic models like Equal Trade Certification. “For a sustainable and just global economy, producers must receive their fair share,” she declared, highlighting how this model offers a pathway to equitable wealth distribution and economic empowerment.

Afrikadag, with over 1,000 participants and contributions from 40 partner organizations, created a dynamic environment for discussion, learning, and action. Workshops, panel discussions, films, and music brought the day to life, offering attendees diverse ways to engage with the theme of Africa’s future.

Why Afrikadag Matters for Equal Trade

For AIM, participating in Afrikadag was a pivotal moment. The workshop provided an opportunity to:

  • Raise awareness about global trade injustices and their link to poverty and inequality in Africa.
  • Share the Equal Trade Certification model with a wide and engaged audience.
  • Foster meaningful connections with policymakers, academics, and NGOs dedicated to fair trade and economic justice.

The response was overwhelmingly positive. Participants engaged with the Equal Trade message, sparking conversations about practical steps toward change. For AIM, Afrikadag not only expanded our network but also strengthened our momentum in advocating for economic justice.

Looking Ahead

Afrikadag 2023 was was a significant step forward, and a call to action. AIM’s message of fair trade and sustainable solutions resonated with stakeholders across sectors, laying the foundation for collaborations that will drive systemic change.

We left the event with renewed energy and a clear mission: to continue championing the Equal Trade Certification model as a powerful tool for addressing structural inequalities and creating a more just and prosperous future.

The journey toward economic justice is long, but Afrikadag was a significant step forward. Together, we can make the Equal Trade vision a reality.

Max Koffi

Founder Equal Trade Alliance

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Revenue-Sharing Model to Ensure Equal Wealth Distribution Along the Value Chain

ETA replaces the traditional supply chain model by making producers co-owners, giving them an equal, guaranteed share of the final price. ETA challenges the structural inequalities that other models have been unable to overcome. Unlike conventional systems where profits are accumulated by intermediaries and retailers, ETA’s revenue-sharing approach redistributes value across the chain, empowering producers to benefit from every stage — not only from raw material sales, but from the value-added stages of production and commercialization.

A minimum threshold of revenue share is established, guaranteeing that a significant percentage of the final product’s value is returned to the producers. This shift ensures that economic sustainability. To reinforce equality and fight fraud, ETA integrates blockchain technology, creating a transparent, tamper-proof system. The result? A supply chain where wealth flows more equally — not just to the West, but across the globe.

Abolish the Buyer-Supplier Relationship

Through joint ownership and long-term partnerships, ETC could restructure trade relationships to reduce dependency on retailers and give producers greater financial stability and decision-making power. Laborers have more to say in the value chain, like in setting demands/prices. Farmers and states earn a sustainable income and buyers get quality and ethically sourced products. Hereby breaks the Equal Trade Model the long-standing cycle of farmer exploitation for the benefit of retailers.