Black Gold (2006 film)

Black Gold (2006) Poster

Black Gold is a 2006 documentary film that centers on the global coffee trade and its ramifications for the farmers who grow coffee beans. Directed by Marc and Nick Francis, the film highlights the journey of Ethiopian coffee farmers as they struggle to seek fair prices for their coffee beans, which are highly valued in international markets. The documentary sheds light on the complexities of the coffee industry, including the economic challenges faced by producers in developing countries and the inequities within the global trading system.

Synopsis

Black Gold follows Tadesse Meskela, a representative of the Oromia Coffee Farmers Co-operative Union in Ethiopia, as he travels the world to find buyers willing to pay a fair price for his members' coffee. The film juxtaposes the poverty of the Ethiopian coffee farmers with the wealth generated by the coffee industry in developed countries. It explores the impact of international institutions such as the World Trade Organization and the challenges of fair trade practices. Through Meskela's journey, Black Gold highlights the disparity between the price paid to coffee producers and the final retail price.

Production

The film was shot on location in Ethiopia, London, and New York, capturing the stark contrasts between the lives of coffee farmers and consumers in the West. The directors, Marc and Nick Francis, aimed to bring attention to the plight of coffee farmers and the need for fair trade practices. They spent several years researching and filming, striving to present an accurate portrayal of the coffee industry's impact on farmers.

Reception

Upon its release, Black Gold received critical acclaim for its insightful exploration of the coffee trade and its call to action for consumers and policymakers. It was screened at various film festivals, including the Sundance Film Festival, and garnered attention for its powerful message and compelling storytelling. Critics praised the documentary for its ability to humanize the economic issues surrounding the coffee industry and for shedding light on the challenges faced by coffee farmers in Ethiopia.

Impact

Black Gold has been credited with raising awareness about the importance of fair trade coffee and the economic injustices within the global coffee market. It has sparked discussions among consumers, retailers, and policymakers about ethical consumption and the need to support fair trade practices. The film has also been used as an educational tool to teach about global economics, trade, and the impact of consumer choices on developing countries.

See Also

• Coffee production in Ethiopia
• Fair trade
• Economic inequality
• World Trade Organization