News
 From peak to market: Uniting Bolivian farmers in the Andes11.07.2024High in the Bolivian Andes, the AGRECOL Andes Foundation is not just making a big difference; it is revolutionizing the way local farmers connect and practice sustainable agriculture. From the bustling city of Cochabamba to the mountain village of Tirani at 3 000 metres, this organization brings farmers together to boost their visibility and provide support for sustainable farming practices. At the heart of this effort is Nelly Camacho, an inspiring organic farmer from Tirani. Nelly ventured into agroecology after years in conventional flower production, which she believes contributed to her battle with cancer. After overcoming the illness, she sought a healthier approach to farming. "Today, we only have meat in the refrigerator; the rest is outside in our plots," she proudly states. Nelly, who is married with three children, is now the first representative of the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) group "PGS Cercado", composed mostly of women. Her motto, "We must all move forward; the road is long and difficult, but we have to continue," encapsulates her determination and resilience. Nelly's products, such as tomate corazón de buey and quilquiña, have gained significant recognition, especially through the Mountain Partnership Products (MPP) Initiative. In the 2023-2024 season, she also planted amaranth at 2 850 metres in the Tunari National Park. Native to the region, amaranth is a traditional and nutritious crop with deep cultural roots in the Plurinational State of Bolivia. Family farming accounts for more than 70 percent of the fresh produce consumed in the Plurinational State of Bolivia, and AGRECOL Andes has been instrumental in helping organic farmers like Nelly gain more attention. For over 20 years, this non-profit organization has led the promotion of sustainable farming in the Andean regions, encouraging organic agriculture for better rural development at local, national and regional levels. AGRECOL Andes focuses on supporting environmentally friendly farming, empowering small farmers, creating market opportunities, and protecting the environment. They emphasize gender equality and support marginalized groups, especially women and young people. In 2023, AGRECOL Andes, along with the Mountain Partnership Secretariat (MPS) and IFOAM Organics International, helped create a new PGS group called "PGS Mi Llajta." This system offers small farmers an alternative way to certify their organic products, involving producers, consumers and various public and private partners in a transparent and affordable process. Through careful evaluation, AGRECOL Andes helped identify four products that earned MPP narrative labels: api de maís morado, muña, pop de amaranto coimi, and tomate corazón de buey y quilquiña. These labels not only ensure quality but also share the stories and values behind each product with consumers. The MPS continues to support AGRECOL Andes with marketing strategies to strengthen their projects. A notable initiative is BOLSALUDABLE, which delivers fresh and processed organic products, as well as artisanal recycled items, directly to homes, stores and a weekly fair. This is creating a strong connection between producers and consumers in communities. AGRECOL Andes plans to involve more agroecological producers and increase consumer participation in these fairs. Nelly's journey and success exemplify the impactful work of the AGRECOL Andes, showing how sustainable practices can transform lives and communities in the Bolivian Andes. Photo by Fundación AGRECOL Andes |
Mountain Partnership
| Our work
| Focus areas
| Follow Us
Subscribe to Peak to Peak Newsletter
|
