Fairtrade equals freedom for olive farmer (From Wiltshire Times)
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Fairtrade equals freedom for olive farmer
4:00pm Saturday 9th March 2013 in Latest News
Abu Rafat and Manal Abdallah enjoy lunch with Alan Hinds, Judith Hammond, John Feane and Vivienne Kynaston
A Palestinian olive grower has told shoppers in Melksham Fairtrade goods provide him with a feeling of freedom.
West Bank farmer Abu Rafat – with interpreter Manal Abdallah – was part of Bradford on Avon’s Fairtrade Fortnight market and presentation last Saturday.
Mr Rafat is one of 43 organic farmers belonging to the Palestinian Fairtrade Associa-tion, which produces oil for Zaytoun, the first olive oil certified as Fairly Traded. A Zaytoun stall was selling products from oil to dates and soaps.
He said: “Fairtrade makes me feel free and trusted to make something really good, not just from my land but also for my life.”
Mr Rafat attended the presentation evening at St Margaret’s Hall, which attracted more than 100 people. He spoke about the difficulties of living and farming in the West Bank, using slideshows illustrating the difference Fair Trade can make.
The market was also selling Fairtrade gifts and produce, barbecue items for vegetarian burgers.
Fairtrade Town Group chairman Vivienne Kyn-aston said: “The more we learn about Fairtrade the more interesting it is and helpful for shoppers.”
The campaign fortnight ends on March 10.
