Since its establishment by entrepreneur Prof Dr Michael Otto in 2005, the Aid by Trade Foundation has pursued a clear vision: to enable economic development through trade instead of traditional aid. With the Cotton made in Africa (CmiA) initiative, which was also established 20 years ago, the foundation has succeeded in developing the world’s leading standards for sustainable cotton production – thus creating an outstanding example of successful social business.
The successes speak for themselves: Around one million smallholder farmers and their families in ten African countries benefit from the initiative in the long term. The initiative also sets an important example for sustainability and transparency in the textile industry with over 60 international trading partners. 30% of African cotton production is now CmiA-verified. CmiA cotton has a lower carbon footprint than the global average, does not use irrigation at all and excludes the use of genetically modified seeds. In addition to economic and ecological aspects, the initiative also stands for social commitment: it enables training for small farmers, promotes women, builds schools, improves healthcare and thus strengthens rural communities – always in cooperation with local partners.
To honour and recognise the merits of an entrepreneurial initiative that simultaneously creates decent employment and promotes socially, ecologically and economically sustainable agriculture, this year’s Honorary Award was presented to the Aid by Trade Foundation. Its founder Prof Dr Michael Otto accepted the award on behalf of the foundation.
Programme
Welcome remarks
Dr Wolfgang Stefinger MP, Chairman of the Committee on Economic Cooperation and Development
Dr Uschi Eid, President, German Africa Foundation
Laudatory speech
Dr Bärbel Kofler MP, Parliamentary State Secretary to the Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development
Discussion
Prof Dr Michael Otto, Founder of the Aid by Trade Foundation, and
Sabine Odhiambo, Secretary General, German Africa Foundation
Greeting message
Cem Özdemir, Former Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture
