Cotton Made in Africa
Cotton made in Africa (CmiA) promotes sustainable cotton production in Africa, improves the living conditions of smallholder farmers, and protects the environment. The initiative focuses on trade instead of donations and is committed to social justice, biodiversity, and education.
About Cotton made in Africa (CmiA)
editCotton made in Africa (CmiA) is an internationally recognized standard for sustainably produced cotton from Africa. Since 2005, CmiA has been committed to protecting the environment while improving the working and living conditions of smallholder farmers and ginners. The initiative is a project of the Aid by Trade Foundation (AbTF), founded by Prof. Dr. Michael Otto. Its goal is to improve people's living conditions and protect valuable resources through trade rather than donations.
Main Products and Services
editCmiA offers a standard for the sustainable production of cotton, based on the three pillars of sustainability: People, Planet, and Prosperity. The initiative supports smallholder farmers through training in agricultural and business methods to enhance the quality and yield of their cotton. CmiA collaborates with a wide network of partners along the entire textile value chain to ensure that certified cotton is processed properly.
Mission and Values
editThe mission of CmiA is to help people in Africa help themselves by improving their living and working conditions through sustainable trade. The values of the initiative include environmental protection, the promotion of gender equality, and respect for children's rights. CmiA is also committed to protecting biodiversity and reducing the negative impacts of pesticides.
Sustainability Goals and Initiatives
editCmiA pursues ambitious sustainability goals that are monitored through independent audits. The initiative promotes the cultivation of cotton without genetically modified organisms and relies on rain-fed agriculture to minimize water consumption. Through the CmiA Community Cooperation Programme, projects in health, education, women's empowerment, and environmental protection are supported. These projects contribute to improving living conditions in cotton-growing regions.
Commitment to the Future
editCmiA is dedicated to securing the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in Africa in the long term while protecting the environment. By combining social and ecological standards with economic incentives, CmiA creates a win-win situation for all stakeholders along the value chain. The initiative remains a pioneer in sustainable cotton production and continuously strives for a better future.