Utilization of fairtrade premium for the development of the poor producers focus mainly on two aspects
Economic Development
In order to reach the goals towards sustainability, the development of the land and the improvement of land productivity are encouraged.
Premiums are utilized for the development by distributing tea plants, seeds, and various other crops for biodiversity. Agricultural equipment is provided for more efficient and systematic farming. Farm animals such as cows and goats are distributed among farmers to generate extra income for them through commercial milk production, and cow dung is crucial for organic agriculture as it forms the basis of the organic compost used to fertilize the tea bushes and other crops.
On the other hand, the income generated from the agricultural activities, the poor farmers need additional income-generating activities. SOFA has clearly identified the needs and implemented a number of successful programs aiming at the economic development of the members. Interest-free loans are given for the conduct of women development programs focusing on generating extra income and self-employment, training programs on tailoring and dress making, etc.
Social Development
SOFA has not focused attention only on the development of our members. Some of the social responsibility programs conducted by SOFA are good visual examples to show our genuine commitment to social responsibility.
Many farmers have experienced the reality of the concept of fair trade with social responsibility perspectives, which include drinking water projects, pre-schools, education programs, road construction, community centers, etc.