TWO Ghanaian cocoa farmers attended an event to kick off the annual Fairtrade Fortnight celebrations in Greenwich.

Guest speakers Harriet Boatemaa and Fatima Ali spoke about their lives in their native country and the impact the Fairtrade initiative has had in helping to ensure farmers are paid a fair wage.

Founder of Cards from Africa, Chris Page, also spoke at the event held in the Eltham Centre, in Archery Road.

The company sells handcrafted Rwandan Fairtrade cards to help improve the quality of life for orphaned youths in Rwanda.

News Shopper: Cards From Africa Founder Chris Page with Evelyn Oduro Kwartey The initiative runs until March 13 with a number of other events taking place.

Greenwich Council’s cabinet member for culture and olympics and Co-Chair of Greenwich’s Fairtrade Network, Councillor John Fahy, attended the launch event.

He said: “As an official Fairtrade borough since 2006, Greenwich’s commitment to supporting the initiative increases yearly.

“The Eltham Centre launch was just the beginning of a packed schedule of activities which will be taking place in the borough, all ensuring an entertaining and informative time while also raising awareness of the Fairtrade initiative.

“Supporting Fairtrade is an opportunity for all of us to make a tangible contribution to the well-being of those less fortunate and I sincerely hope we all take the opportunity to play our part.”

Other events planned during Fairtrade Fortnight

- A musical extravaganza will take place on Tuesday (March 8) from 8pm at Charlton House, in Charlton Road, which coincides with International Women’s Day.

It will feature music and performances from a number of different cultures including a fusion of Jazz and Indian music, Ugandan drumming and Nigerian Poetry.

For information, call 020 8856 3951.

- An all-day Fairtrade Market at the Eltham Centre will take place on Saturday (March 12) from 10am to 4pm with products ranging from Fairtrade jewellery to Fairtrade fruit.

Greenwich’s young people will also be playing their part in the fortnight with activities taking place at Greenwich University and in Greenwich’s schools to mark the occasion.