Evidence to improve trade and share value more fairly.

The Equal Trade Academic Alliance connects universities and researchers to study how wealth is created and distributed along African value chains. Our central question is simple: who captures the value of African raw materials, and what would a fairer distribution look like?

What we research

Our research covers agriculture, minerals and other raw materials, following the full journey from production to consumption. Three areas guide the work:

Value chain analysis traces products and materials to identify where wealth is created and where its distribution is unequal.

Institutional research examines how international organisations and dominant states shape socio-economic inequality, and explores more equitable alternatives.

Social research examines the consequences of unequal trade and the sustainability of post-colonial political economies.

How evidence becomes action

Partners coordinate research methods, collect field data with communities and develop policy recommendations. Findings are shared through publications, policy briefs, conferences and seminars. Training helps stakeholders use the evidence in practice.

The research tests and improves the Equal Trade model through Living Labs, including the Coffee Living Lab. It also provides an evidence base for advocacy, including proposals to integrate Equal Trade Certification into national trade policies.

University partners

Wageningen U&R in the Netherlands leads research at the market end of the Coffee Living Lab and supports monitoring, evaluation and learning. Jimma University in Ethiopia focuses on production, household economics and producer-level data. Thomas More University in Belgium and the University of Nairobi in Kenya contribute research and publications across both production and market stages.

How we collaborate

The alliance brings together academics, students, consumers, NGOs, companies, policymakers and activists. A management team coordinates the work, supported by committees for research, outreach and engagement, and policy advocacy. Regional chapters, an advisory board and focused working groups connect the programme to local knowledge and practical needs.

Research with us

Get in touch with Max Koffi to explore a university partnership, supervise student research or contribute to the alliance’s research and policy work.