Since 2007 Oxfam has been working with the European Union and partners to help Palestinian olive farming co-operatives gain Fair Trade certification and maximise the economic potential of their crops. To date, 11 co-operatives have gained the certification, with another ten expecting to achieve it by the end of 2010. Guardian photographer David Levene visited the West Bank to document the annual olive oil harvest and find out about the challenges facing olive farmers. Have a look at his photo gallery.
Oxfam Shop offers a range of fairtrade olive-based soaps made in Israel. you can buy them online or in your local Oxfam Shop.
More about our work in Gaza and West Bank
Oxfam works with Palestinians and Israelis to alleviate poverty and suffering. In Israel, we are working with civil society to address the needs of minority groups and to encourage a change in attitudes to support justice and peace for all.
Across the West Bank and Gaza we are working with the most vulnerable communities, including women, to help them improve their livelihoods, access essential services and have a say in the decisions that affect them. We work to develop sustainable livelihoods in areas that have been affected by climatic shocks, such as drought and water scarcity. Our work with farmers and cooperatives in the West Bank focuses on creating access to new markets and helps to increase their income through Fair Trade opportunities.
Doris*, daughter, 5; Pamila*, 2. Christina grows maize and she was shown how to make compost as part of the CRAFS (Climate Resilient Agriculture and Food Systems) programme.
