Traidcraft Exchange Update

from Bulletin - May 2022

Intro Pages

Munyis Kinyaga, farming entrepreneur, Kenya

Credit: Traidcraft Exchange/Ian Gatere

Turning a small farm into a strong business

This spring, we are celebrating farming entrepreneurs in Kenya who are proving trade is a powerful tool to build secure futures, for themselves and their families.

Munyis Kinyaga is doing exactly that, by turning his small farm into a strong business. Munyis was not always a farmer; he grew up as a herdsman, protecting his family’s livestock while his siblings attended school. This education gave his siblings opportunities: “My brothers have studied, they have put in that effort to the point where they are able to earn their living using papers (certificates, diplomas and degrees)”. Recognising Munyis’ sacrifice, his father bought him a farm in Manyagalo. With no farming experience, this was a blessing but also a challenge for Munyis. Ambitious and hardworking, he grasped every opportunity to learn, not only taking on training in crop yields, trusted seed suppliers and negotiation, but also by volunteering a portion of his land as a demonstration farm and joining a farmers group. Today, Munyis’s farm is as successful a business as his brothers’ formal jobs, and once again, his hard work is benefitting others - all four of his children go to school.

“I have to educate them,” Munyis says emphatically. “If I didn’t make it to school, then let them.” Don't miss the chance to stand with more inspirational farmers like Munyis - there's not long left to support our Easter appeal. Donate at www.traidcraftexchange.org/easter

Thank you so much!

We are thrilled to say 2022 has been a brilliant year for Big Brew. Two years after the first lockdown in the UK, as we return to socialising in large groups, it has been wonderful to see all of you grasp the opportunity to come together in your communities and support the fight for trade justice. We would like to say a massive thank you to all our Big Brew hosts and guests, for every cup of coffee brewed, delicious cake baked, and all the fun games you played. The funds raised by your hard work and support will make a real difference in the lives of the producers and artisans who are building a fairer world through trade. If you hosted a Big Brew and haven’t had a chance to send us your donations, you can pay them in at:

www.traidcraftexchange.org/bigbrew

Go the distance…

Longer days, sunnier skies – May is sure to put a spring in your step. Why not use this newfound energy to put your best foot forward in our 100km in May challenge?

We are asking all fair-minded people to cover 100km in the month of May, and it is not too late to get involved! You can walk, run, swim, wheel or cycle… the method and location are completely up to you.

This challenge is the perfect way to get outside in the fresh air, and every step brings us closer to a fairer world! You have until the end of the month to cover 100km, invite your friends and family to support you and fundraise at least £130. It’s quick and easy to get started and we will even send you a free t-shirt when you sign up.