An Exploration Into Food/Cash Crop Alternatives to Tobacco in Africa
Description:
In 2003, the World Health Organization (WHO) adopted the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), an international treaty to reduce demand for tobacco products and address supply issues. In addition to demand reduction strategies, the treaty specified that signatory countries should promote economically viable alternatives to tobacco for farmers; to reduce the amount of land cultivated for tobacco leaf; and to protect the environment and health of farmers.
Foundation for a Smoke-Free World was founded in part to identify and promote alternate market-driven agricultural supply and value chains, as well as fundamental livelihood alternatives for current smallholder tobacco farmers in Africa. To be successful, this will require a new vision grounded in emerging science-based research, collaboration among corporate and civil society stakeholders based on the formation of new business relationships, change of market and political incentives, alignment of interest with the tobacco industry, and support of governments. No small task.
Therefore, we invite you to participate in an initial conversation exploring key questions that will help shape this desired outcome.
We are hosting a panel discussion that includes:
- Jim Lutzweiler, Chair
- Dyborn Chibonga, CEO, National Smallholder Farmers’ Association of Malawi
- Ellen Levinson, Levinson & Associates
This event is free and open to the public