Junín: Devida and Asháninka communities strengthen cocoa production

The National Commission for Development and Life without Drugs (Devida) and the Organization of Asháninka Communities of the Ene Pangoa River (Ocarep) have extended their partnership to enhance cacao production in the Junín region until 2028, covering 175.5 hectares and supporting 156 families. This collaboration aims to promote sustainable development, modern agriculture, and the transition away from illicit coca leaf cultivation towards legal crops. The initiative has been successful in strengthening community leadership, social fabric, and the cooperative movement, leading to the establishment of a cacao processing module that increases the value-added of production and improves marketing opportunities for Asháninka families.

The National Commission for Development and Life without Drugs (Devida) and the Organization of Asháninka Communities of the Ene Pangoa River (Ocarep), in the Junín region, have reaffirmed their partnership until 2028 to strengthen cacao production on 175.5 hectares, benefiting 156 families who have opted for a legitimate life in an area vulnerable to drug trafficking. This agreement seeks to consolidate sustainable development in the Asháninka communities living on the left bank of the Ene River. These communities have productive areas that favor the production of cacao, plantains, cassava, papaya, and other legal crops, allowing them to transition away from illicit coca leaf cultivation. Eli García Rivera, president of Ocarep, highlighted the achievements and the importance of continuing this joint effort: "Every year I see that my community members are more connected to agriculture, the plots are modernized, and the commitment is evident. We will continue to respond to this ...