Fairtrade Africa is celebrating two decades of work with smallholder farmers and workers across Africa and the Middle East, marking the anniversary with a pledge to deepen its focus on sustainability, youth empowerment, and women’s leadership.

Since its formation in 2005, the independent non-profit umbrella organisation says it has channelled nearly €700 million, about Ksh 105 billion, into more than 780 community projects. These projects have helped build schools, health centres and funded climate adaptation measures, which have in turn improved livelihoods and strengthened producer cooperatives.

The organisation, which represents Fairtrade-certified producers in 33 countries, has been central in helping farmers secure fairer prices for their crops, access new markets, and adopt sustainable farming practices.

Its model of guaranteed minimum prices, premium payments above industry averages, and training support has helped thousands withstand global market shocks and increase trade opportunities.

Part of its impact has been social. According to Fairtrade Africa, “more than 25% of leadership roles in Fairtrade cooperatives are now held by women, which is three times the industry average.”

These efforts have enabled women within producer organisations to influence decisions that were once limited due to broader social norms.

Executive Director Isaac Tongola reflected on the journey.

“For two decades, Fairtrade Africa has walked alongside farmers and workers to ensure their voices are heard and their communities thrive. As we look to the next 20 years, our focus is clear: fairer prices, stronger communities, and sustainable trade that works for both people and planet.”

Looking ahead, the organisation has unveiled a new strategy to scale regenerative agriculture to restore degraded land, equip 10,000 young farmers with digital climate tools, and roll out “Made by Africa” brands under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

 “Fairtrade Africa remains committed to championing fairer prices, building resilient communities, and driving sustainable trade across the continent, ensuring that producers can thrive in a rapidly changing world,” Tongola added.

Founded in 2005, Fairtrade Africa is the regional representative body for Fairtrade International, with more than 1.4 million farmers and workers under its network.

Its members produce crops such as coffee, cocoa, tea, bananas, cotton, flowers, and other exports. Beyond trade, the organisation also runs training programmes in climate resilience, human rights, and governance, ensuring that farmers are not only part of the value chain but also decision-makers within it.

Over 20 years, its mission has remained consistent: giving farmers and workers a stronger voice in global trade while building communities that can withstand economic and environmental pressures.