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There’s an opportunity on the Oxfam website to speak up for Ethiopian coffee farmers. Oxfam America is a non-profit organization that works to end global poverty through saving lives, strengthening communities, and campaigning for change.
With as many as 15 million Ethiopians dependent on coffee, Ethiopia has decided to get its farmers more of what they deserve. The country’s government has asked Starbucks to sign a licensing agreement that will allow Ethiopia to control the names of its coffees. That way, Ethiopia can help determine an export price that makes sure farmers see a larger share of the profits enabling them to feed their children, send them to school and get them better healthcare.
Oxfam and a coalition of allies are asking Starbucks to sign this agreement. According to one coalition member, control of the name brands could increase Ethiopia’s coffee export income by more than 25 percent – or $88 million annually. This money could go a long way to help lift millions of Ethiopians out of poverty.
Go here to send a letter to Starbucks CEO Jim Donald.
signed!