Peru: Indigenous enterprise honored for conserving biodiversity through cac

Peru: Indigenous enterprise honored for conserving biodiversity through cacao

26-06-25

An indigenous enterprise in the Cusco region has been awarded a significant financial grant of 50,000 soles in recognition of its work conserving biodiversity through the sustainable cultivation of native cacao. This award, part of the “Enterprises that Conserve” program promoted by Peru’s Ministry of the Environment and Conservation International, highlights the commitment of Indigenous communities to protecting ecosystems while developing environmentally respectful production practices.

The project, led by the Association of Women Cacao Producers of the native community of Queros, in the district of Kosñipata, Paucartambo province, Cusco, focuses on cultivating and processing fine aroma cacao under environmentally friendly standards. The members of this organization have successfully integrated the production of this emblematic crop with the preservation of local forests and wildlife in an area considered critical for biodiversity. Their efforts have not only created new opportunities for sustainable income for community families but have also fostered the protection of native species and the responsible management of territorial resources.

The recognition goes beyond its financial component, as it represents institutional support for initiatives that show development and conservation can go hand in hand. At the award ceremony, representatives from the Ministry of the Environment emphasized that such projects are key to advancing toward a more inclusive and sustainable economic model that values the ancestral knowledge of Indigenous peoples and their role as stewards of nature. They also noted that the recognized enterprise is an inspiring example of how communities can lead transformation processes in their territories by valuing their own resources and knowledge.

For their part, the members of the Association of Women Cacao Producers expressed their pride and satisfaction at receiving the award and reaffirmed their commitment to continuing to work for biodiversity and the well-being of their community. They indicated that the 50,000 soles will help strengthen their production infrastructure, improve cacao fermentation and drying processes, and explore new markets to sell their products both nationally and internationally. The award, they said, represents added motivation to keep pursuing a production model that respects the land and promotes the community’s overall development.

The “Enterprises that Conserve” program, which made this recognition possible, is part of Peru’s national strategies for biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation. The initiative seeks to identify, strengthen, and promote community businesses that generate environmental and social benefits while contributing to the protection of strategic ecosystems such as Amazonian forests, páramos, and wetlands. Since its launch, the program has supported various enterprises in different regions of the country, with the goal of demonstrating that it is possible to combine economic growth with environmental protection and social inclusion.

The case of the Queros enterprise stands as living testimony to the positive impact that community actions can have when supported by public policies and strategic alliances with civil society. In a context where Peru faces growing environmental and sustainable development challenges, initiatives like this provide a roadmap for building a future where respect for the environment and economic progress are not opposing goals but complementary ones.

The award given to the cacao producers of Cusco also highlights the crucial role of women in conservation and sustainable development processes. The members of the association have established leadership that not only drives the local economy but also strengthens the social fabric and promotes gender equity in their communities. Their work helps preserve native cacao varieties that are part of the country’s genetic heritage, while protecting ecosystems that play essential roles in climate regulation and the provision of environmental services.

Through this award, the Peruvian government and Conservation International reaffirm their commitment to continue supporting enterprises that contribute to sustainable development and biodiversity conservation from within their territories. The experience of the Queros community stands as an example of hope and action, inviting others to help build a Peru that values and protects its natural and cultural wealth.

In collaboration with: