Fair trade in tourism – next stop Mozambique?
09. May, 2008
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Durban – A project to explore the feasibility of implementing a “Fair Trade in Tourism” certification programme in Mozambique was launched in late 2007. Motivation for this was due to the numerous requests received by Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa (FTTSA) from tourism stakeholders in Mozambique who wanted to have access to the benefits of such a programme, particularly based on its proven success in South Africa. The feasibility study was launched in November 2007, with an anticipated completion date of late June 2008. The research phase – conducted through a joint effort of South African and Mozambican consultancies – has been completed and includes an analysis of the tourism industry in Mozambique as well as recommendations for a prospective certification programme to addresses the local context. To supplement this research, workshops were held during mid-April 2008 in Maputo, Inhambane and Pemba in order to consult with the private sector, local governments, NGOs and tourism associations about relevant opportunities and challenges. The entire process has been guided by a Steering Committee, which is comprised of senior representatives from the following:
- · Mozambique’s National Ministry of Tourism (MITUR)
- · Centro Terra Viva (an environmental NGO in Mozambique)
- · Hotel Association of Southern Mozambique
- · Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa (FTTSA)
Initial findings have been very positive and the initiative has been welcomed by the full spectrum of tourism industry stakeholders throughout Mozambique. Further networking will be conducted at the Durban Tourism Indaba in May 2008, followed by a Project Steering Committee meeting later that month. The future direction of the initiative will be decided at this meeting.
The feasibility study for a “Fair Trade in Tourism” certification programme in Mozambique was made possible through funding provided by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO).
My name is Muzi Mohale a full-time travel blogger, your host at Travelwires.com responsible for all editorial on this blog. I blog about the travel and tourism industry in Africa. Apart from blogging about tourism, I also run 
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[...] FTTSA and its partners including FLO have identified a number of Fair Trade issues that will be incorporated into a working set of trade standards, including: [...]
[...] FTTSA certification is an independent endorsement of fair and responsible tourism practice in South Africa. It is based on adherence to specific criteria including fair wages and working conditions, fair distribution of benefits, ethical business practice, and respect for human rights, culture and the environment. Certification is offered on a voluntary basis to providers of tourist accommodation, activities and attractions. [...]