Simple trade

[Guest]

.

[SierraJim]

It occurs to me while listening to  public television show about Afghanistan that for lack of simple and easily accessible items here in the US, simple projects in many other countries could be completed.  In particular, the show was about the lack of spark plugs for 5 generators.  Without the spark plugs, the generators will not work, and it is impossible to get the spark plugs. 

For a relatively small amount of money an individual such as myself could supply those spark plugs either for free, or for a loan.  I could have sent those spark plugs for under US$100, and I would have been glad to do so.  I am sure that others would be glad to do the same.

I am willing to participate, but I am limited by my total disability.  However, this does not stop me from having the desire to become involved to the extent that I can.  Does somebody in Afghanistan need spark plugs?

[Johan]

That's a good thought!
I guess that the only thing that is needed to create such "simple trade" is a big network and a reliable delivery service.
Most of us in the developed world, have very easy access to shops, tools and money to purchase needed items.
But if you are in a country where you are missing a few spark plugs to get electricity, i guess that its an enourmous task to get online and order it, or contact someone that has easy access to spare parts to donate.
(Sometimes the hugest charity organisations are distributing things that the people in need doesn't need or doesn't have any use for. And can sometimes forget the simplest things that people in fact depend upon.)
If someone are willing to start a network for "demand and supply" I would gladly join and try to fill some of the requests, for items that are easily deliverable via mail, or so that i can help to organize from a factory or supplier closer to the person in need.
Perhaps a spin-off of Kiva? with an online catalogue for offered and requested items?

[scncartist]

Hi, my name is Hannah

I'm new here, and new to Kiva. I too joined after watching the Frontline article. I too could find myself hooked.

On the subject of Simple Trade, this was something that I was thinking about just the other day. Having not known that organizations like Kiva existed I wouldn't know where to go/who to trust for such a program. Is one not in existence? I find it hard to believe that it doesn't already. But if I didn't, I too would be jumping on that band wagon! :-)

[Ari]

You know what, I think that's a really great idea !!  Somebody should set it up.  Joe??