London, UK, 2014-1-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Sainsbury’s is part of a new £4 million UK government initiative to improve the lives of workers and farmers in supply chains around the world.
Judith Batchelar, Director of Sainsbury’s Brand, says:
“As part of Sainsbury’s commitment to creating a positive impact in the countries we source from, we are proud to be partnering with DfID on two new projects in Africa.
An innovative radio show will give thousands of small scale farmers, workers and communities in Kenya access to vital education and skills to address challenging social issues.Coupled with the delivery of a training programme for fruit supply chain workers in South Africa, both projects will contribute to securing healthier lives and more sustainable livelihoods for those that need it most.
By investing in nurturing skills, supporting development and encouraging healthier lives, Sainsbury’s is ensuring our customers will have the best quality fresh products today and in the years ahead.”
In Kenya, we are embarking on a ground-breaking project involving over 26,000 farmers and workers – plus their families and communities – who supply our vegetables, flowers and tea. An exciting and informative radio show will be broadcast over 6 months (by partner Well Told Story), addressing issues such as financial literacy, nutrition and health, giving listeners valuable knowledge and skills for healthier lives and more secure futures. We will also work with local NGO Real Impact, to construct a demonstration farm where workers can learn more about how to grow and cook more nutritious food to feed themselves and their families.
An ambitious project involving workers in Sainsbury’s fruit supply chains across five regions in South Africa, we will be working with the National Training Institute to deliver courses to provide skills and opportunities for participants to gain better and more secure jobs. Some of those involved will have the chance to travel to the UK to see what happens when the apples, pears, grapes and nectarines they pick or pack, reach our stores.
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