Purchase for AfricaA Socially-Conscious Buying & Global

Branding Program

Rosa Whitaker

May 6th, 2009

What is Purchase from Africa?

HBCU-led purchasing program of African-manufactured apparel for export to the U.S., envisioned by Rosa Whitaker, former Asst. U.S. Trade Representative under Presidents William J. Clinton and George W. Bush

HBCU students with choices to purchase African-manufactured apparel, including t-shirts, jeans and jackets, from campus student stores.

People Helping People

Reduces Poverty in poorest countries in the world

Creates socially- conscious buying power among HBCUs on international level

Retains women workers caring for extended families, many infected with HIV/AIDS

Stirs potential African student interest in attending HBCUs

Why Should HBCUs Care?

Builds global goodwill for HBCUs

Propels HBCUs as key players in U.S. Trade Agenda

Increases socially-conscious buying and potential sales in campus stores

African Americans’ ImpressivePurchasing Power

2007: $845 billion up 166% in 17 years (1990: $318 billion)

2012: $1 trillion (projection)

African American Teenage Consumers: Spend almost $100 pm -- 20% more than average teens in U.S.

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Source: University of Georgia’s Selig Center for Economic Growth www.magazine.org

U.S. Preferences for Africa Trade

Africa Growth & Opportunity Act (AGOA) U.S. trade preference program providing special

access for 41 sub-Saharan African countries Low tariffs on African exports to the U.S.

African governments benefit from AGOA based on commitments to:

Political Pluralism Rule of law Workers Rights

Success & Hope in Lesotho Ethnically Sewn – Ethically Worn

Apparel Industry 39,000 factory workers 85% women as heads of

households supporting 5 extended family members

43% workers HIV/AIDS infected

Competitive Products Good quality Fair pricing High Labor standards

Africa Needs You

Build on Common Heritage

Join in Fighting Poverty

Create New Historical Imprint

Moving Forward

Commit to increase African-made clothing in HBCU student stores by:

20% by 2010

Connect directly with sourcing agents in Africa via Purchase for Africa program.