The Wood Foundation Africa (TWFA) was involved with a Commonwealth Day celebration in Rwanda organised by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Officer (FCDO).
Taking place at the British High Commissioner’s residence in Kigali, the 40 delegates included Hon. Ildephonse Musafiri, Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI), Commissioners from a number of Commonwealth countries, environmental experts, tea stakeholders, and private sector partners.
TWFA discussed its venture philanthropic model and the impact it is having in terms of smallholder empowerment, economic growth, and sustainability in the tea industry.
Delegates took part in blind tea tasting and also heard from speakers about Rwanda’s commitments aligned to the Commonwealth Charter. As a parting gift, they received tea from Silverback’s Rugabano estate.
David Knopp, Africa Director at The Wood Foundation, said:
“We were honoured to be asked to play an integral role in this event. FCDO is a hugely valued partner in our work, and we were proud to share the impact of our work with fellow stakeholders and dignitaries.”
In his presentation, David highlighted that more than 9,000 seasonal and 5,000 permanent jobs had been created at the Rugabano and Nyaruguru greenfield sites and shared that farmers can expect their incomes to increase two to five times once bushes reach maturity.