Fairtrade International has announced the appointment of its new Global CEO, Sandra Uwera.
Uwera steps into the role following the departure of Nyagoy Nyong’o, who served as Interim Global CEO until 31 March 2022.
“I am delighted and honoured to lead Fairtrade as it builds on its leading role in confronting the greatest challenges of our time, from climate change and poverty to gender equality,” Uwera says.
“For many people around the world, Fairtrade means a fairer future for farmers, a more sustainable future for our planet, and a better future for consumers committed to making a difference. This is the Fairtrade vision I look forward to growing alongside the millions of Fairtraders who support our mission.”
According to Fairtrade, Uwera has a wealth of experience in Eastern and Southern Africa and brings a unique set of skills, perspectives, and relationships to lead Fairtrade into the future.
She most recently served as CEO of COMESA Business Council (CBC), the leading Business Member Organization in Africa and a private sector institution of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), which represents 34 business sectors across 21 countries.
As part of her work with CBC and COMESA, Uwera has led projects and programs on sustainable solutions for small and medium enterprises, advocacy, technical capacity-building, industry competitiveness and market access, digital financial inclusion, and programs focused on women and youth empowerment.
“We are thrilled to have Sandra at the helm of Fairtrade at such an important juncture in our organisation’s history,” says Lynette Thorstensen, Chair of Fairtrade’s Board.
“With her exceptional talent and vision, we expect Sandra’s leadership to build on our ambitious Global Strategy, hone our strategic direction, and deepen our impact around the world. We are especially pleased to have hired a citizen from a vital Fairtrade farming region who will be based there, working from Fairtrade Africa’s offices in Nairobi, Kenya.”
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