Not for profit organisation Zaytoun celebrated its 10th anniversary at the Reading Internation Solidarity Centre (RISC) on March 7.
Cathi Pawson, founder member of Zaytoun and Tayhir Arbasi, Zaytoun’s Palestinian director (pictured above) spoke about life in the West Bank and how hard the farmers have to work to grow the olives, dates and almonds that Zaytoun sell.
Before the foundation of Zaytoun any olive oil produced in Palestine was sold to Israeli traders and mixed with other, lower quality oils.
The oldest olive tree in the world is over 3,000 years old and grows in Ba’atin village near Bethlehem, many other olive trees are over 2,000 years old. The fine oils that these trees produce are now processed and bottled in the West Bank and shipped around the world. Any olive oil that is not up to standard is made into soap and also sold.
“Palestinian farmers want trade not aid”, said Tayhir Arbasi. “Palestinians want a future with dignity.”
Last modified on Monday, 13 April 2015 09:56
