RSTC Annual Stakeholders Forum

The Rwenzori Sustainable Trade Centre (RSTC) hosts its Annual Stakeholders Forum each October, bringing together a wide range of participants from across the Rwenzori region. This event serves as a crucial platform for dialogue, collaboration, and strategic planning among the various stakeholders involved in RSTC’s initiatives, including cooperative members, women’s groups, community leaders, educators, and development partners.

The forum is designed to showcase the progress made in key sectors such as cocoa, coffee, cotton, and crafts, where RSTC has been actively supporting local communities. Participants have the opportunity to present their achievements, share experiences, and discuss the challenges they face. Exhibitions are a central feature of the forum, where cooperatives and women’s groups display their products and demonstrate the processes behind their production, offering insights into the journey from raw materials to finished goods that reach both local and international markets.

Workshops held during the forum cover a variety of topics relevant to the stakeholders, including sustainable agricultural practices, Fairtrade certification, and community development. These sessions facilitate knowledge sharing and help participants refine their strategies for improving production, enhancing market access, and fostering economic empowerment within their communities.

A significant focus of the forum is on education and social development. Discussions often highlight how the Fairtrade premiums and other community investments are being used to improve local schools, increase student enrollment, and reduce barriers to education, particularly for girls. The forum also provides a venue for addressing broader community issues, such as access to clean water and the empowerment of women through income-generating activities.

Entertainment, cultural performances, and exhibitions of traditional crafts and products add a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere to the event, reflecting the rich cultural diversity of the Rwenzori region. The forum also includes guest speakers, often including government officials, development partners, and industry experts, who provide insights and express their support for RSTC’s work.

Overall, the RSTC Annual Stakeholders Forum is more than just a meeting; it is a cornerstone event that strengthens relationships, builds community resilience, and sets the stage for future growth and development in the Rwenzori region. Through this forum, RSTC continues to advance its mission of promoting sustainable trade, improving livelihoods, and empowering communities.