Embassy Events

U.S. -Funded Organic Peanut Program Increases Family Incomes by 35%

Ambassador Goldberg learns about organic peanut farming in Mairana from a grower.

USAID's MAPA 2 agricultural project is working in the peanut-producing regions of Samaipata and Mairana to alleviate poverty by raising the incomes of poor families.   Through U.S. government support to the grass roots organization APROMA (Asociación de Productores de Maní de Mairana), made up of 300 small farmers who produce and sell "niche" gourmet peanuts, these products are being introduced in Spanish, Italian, Peruvian, and Colombian markets.  The U.S. government has invested over US$300,000 in the two regions since 2005, reaching over 300 rural families and increasing production to a total of 400 metric tons, with 250 hectares under cultivation.  The income of the beneficiaries has increased by an average of 35%.  Ambassador Goldberg visited the producers in November 2007.  The U.S. government is providing similar support to producers of onions, red chiles, tomatoes, paprika, peaches and plums.