A self-sustaining Peruvian community
20.08.2015
Andean rural areas in South America are home to native ancient ethnicities such as Quechuas and Aymaras and Huancas. These custodians of the Andean cultural heritage, through their biodiversity in crops and local knowledge, demonstrate that ancient technologies can contribute to the reduction of inequality and a more inclusive society. However, despite its potential, Andean communities live mostly in poverty, excluded and marginalized from modern society. The Sunimarca community, located at 4 150 metres above sea level in the Peruvian southern Andes around, is one such case.
Although Sunimarca has experienced historical changes influenced by exogenous variables, its Aymara culture as well as its socio-economic system based on reciprocity and solidarity remains untouched. Land is considered communal property, therefore smallholders produce Andean crops and tubers; they also raise alpacas, sheep and varied cattle. All resources are managed at two levels, at the family level and at the communal level.
Women, men and children are engaged in agricultural work and processing. They know the nutraceutical properties of their food, local produce and medicinal plants. Their local knowledge and techniques are used in the production, storage and processing of their products as well as to manage natural resources.
Since 2007, IKA Germany, Oberle Perú, and Red de Agroindustria Rural del Perú (REDAR Perú) , with the financial support and follow up of Oberle, have developed territorial development activities in Sunimarca. These developments include improvement in infrastructure and promotion of productive activities amongst youth and women. The organizations’ holistic approach facilitated the application of the principles of multiculturalism, participation and shared collective responsibility.
Regarding the crafting of tissues, 18 women have organized a local artisan association. They have shown improvement of their capabilities through the innovation of local knowledge on an ongoing training basis. These women now master shearing, washing, dyeing with natural colors and preparation of alpaca and sheep wool.
Further, learning how to design and size their products has been possible through the modernization of their production. Although initially geared for family use, the products are now promoted at national level.
Results include a 100 percent increase of the family income at the community level and the establishment of an artisan association allows small producers to work collectively. Moreover, a cooperative shared bank has been implemented with the purpose of assisting the community to save common capital and promote access to credit. The co-op is managed by the women of the community. Overall, members of Sunimarca have reported that they have boosted their self-esteem and developed leadership skills.
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News by Sonia Salas Dominguez; photo by Diana Chaman
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