Want a treat that does some good? This new online store is all about sustainable trade, not aid, and empowers African producers to safely sell their goods worldwide.
Proudly Made in Africa (PMIA) is an Irish charity that's all about promoting Africa's world-class products globally. The company's slogan "trade, not aid" emphasises the idea that creating sustainable employment opportunities in Africa is the best way to eliminate poverty throughout the continent.
Speaking about the company, the head of operations at PMIA Feena Kirrkamm told us that the team want to connect producers with consumers around the world.
“We’re changing up charity. We empower African producers to trade their world-class products globally. The result? Sustainable trade, not aid. By supporting African producers, connecting them with buyers, promoting their products and educating consumers Proudly Made in Africa is empowering people.”
Stocking organic, fairtrade and environmentally-friendly products from around the continent, PMIA also advocates for female empowerment in Nairobi, Kenya and Tanzania, and is leading habitat conservation efforts for mountain gorillas.
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Now that the online store is live, businesses from all around Africa can connect and promote their products, while selling to consumers around the world. Products available for purchase include handmade soft toys, natural soaps and much more, as well as a range of delicious food and drink products.
Available products include MIA Chocolate, a luxury bean-to-bar single origin chocolate bar range from Madagascar; Moyee Coffee, the world's first Fair Chain coffee which works to reduce deforestation and is roasted at the source to improve livelihoods in the area; Gorilla Coffee, a Ugandan company that creates high-quality, single-origin Arabica and Robusta coffee while improving the lives of coffee farmers and conserving the habitats of mountain gorillas.
Since its inception in 2008, PMIA has supported over 700 businesses and entrepreneurs across 15 countries across Africa, creating hundreds of jobs and connecting ethical consumers with responsibly sourced products.
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