Community Crafts

Handicraft Activities can contribute to strengthen rural and semi-urban communities, addressing the needs of thousands of people that do not have access to market or alternative income sources. The Project aims to alleviate poverty among craft producers by facilitating their access to Fair Trade services and expanding their existing markets. Fostering training in the field of production management and production process, pricing, record keeping and participation in decision making process, the Project enables the artisans to improve their production skills thus ensuring a good quality of products, enforces their participation in the production management and develops their financial independence, preserving their cultural heritage and identity. In collaboration with North South Consultants Exchange and Egypt Craft Center/Fair Trade Egypt, COSPE guarantees the Fair Trade ethical principles' respect that allows a safe and healthy working environment, responsible methods of productions, conscientious environmental practices and fair prices as a result of transparent management and commercial relations. Thanks to the fact that most handicraft activities can be carried out at the household or the community level, a large majority of producers are women. This aspect contributes to trigger processes of socio-economic awareness and independence for women and facilitates increased access to better education and healthcare services for children, hence improving their quality of life.