Mangoes with impact: living wage in Burkina Faso

In Burkina Faso, the minimum wage is just €67.50 per month - that's over 60% lower than the calculated living wage (see calculation by The Global Living Wage Coalition). More than enough reason for Eosta to launch a living wage project in collaboration with export partner Fruiteq. 

2 cents per kilo makes a difference 

Per kilo of mango that Eosta imports from Burkina Faso, €0.02 is set aside for a fund. This can be used in a targeted way to improve income for Fruiteq employees. So far, €25,000 has already been built up in this way. 

Fruiteq workers are united in Association Benkadi Fruiteq, and decide themselves how the fund is used. 

Microcredit instead of pay rise 

Instead of direct wage increases, employees opted for a revolving fund of micro-loans. This is a fund from which employees can borrow money temporarily at minimal interest. When repaid, it becomes available to the next colleague - the money continues to circulate. 

Bank loans are unaffordable for many people in Burkina Faso. The fund has already allowed 110 workers to start their own small businesses, such as a taxi service, car wash or textile trade. 

Off-season income 

The mango season lasts only 12 weeks. Thanks to their own business, participants can now generate off-season income. 

Some are now so successful that they do not return to work at the packing station - and that is fine according to Fruiteq. The positive side effects on the well-being of Burkinabe families are more than worth it. 

Want to know more about Eosta's Living Wage projects? 
Contact Gert-Jan Lieffering (Sustainable Sourcing Manager): 
gertjan.lieffering@eosta.com