Development Ratings

Director, Rosie Martin, joined the charity in April 2008. She has been in the international development sector since 1994, with Concern Worldwide in Ethiopia, Haiti, Cambodia and Malawi, and through her academic studies. An experienced fundraiser has been employed. All employees are currently working part-time as the charity restrains costs and works to develop income and growth. Trustees and advisors contribute development, NGO, social justice, local government, business and finance experience. In Tanzania and Ghana, two knowledgeable and experienced local people have been recruited on a part-time, volunteer basis to monitor and review projects locally until such time as the charity is able to resume regular field visits.

Some institutional funding commitments ended in 2008/early 2009. Substantial time was spent in 2007 pursuing a major funding proposal, which came to nothing. After a difficult 2008/9 period, income has resumed for some programmes. Another year’s operations has been secured, through calendar year 2009, but it is critical that new donors are attracted to resume full programme funding and maintain or increase the impact on beneficiaries. 2008 has not been a typical year in terms of finances and fundraising efficiency.

In 2008, expenditure was split between countries as follows: Tanzania 77%, Ghana 23%.

In 2008, income was derived from the following sources: institutions, trusts and foundations 65%; individuals 29%, sale of fair trade goods 6%.