Preserving biodiversity of Andean roots and tubers : working with women

Cadima, Ximena; Terrazas, Franz; Salazar, Magaly; Calderón, Rayne; Antezana, Ivonne

Preserving biodiversity of Andean roots and tubers : working with women

Files

IDL-49125.pdf (385.25 KB)

Date

2010

Authors

Abstract

PROINPA, CIP-Papa Andina Initiative, and the Bolivian Ministry of Agriculture have worked together in promoting women's participation in producers' associations. Those associations try to increase their member’s income through the use and promotion of the biodiversity of Andean roots and tubers, highlighting their nutritional and medicinal properties. Traditional knowledge, especially from women, in relation to the different uses of roots and tubers such as achira (Canna edulis) and arracacha (Arracacia xanthrorriza) was combined with new information on additional uses of such products. Results were presented at several food fairs and other events, thus disseminating the knowledge to other communities. The project has contributed not only to increase the income of the whole family, but in particular to increase women’s income since they were the ones commercializing the products. It has also contributed to improve women’s social capital including self esteem and increased recognition from other community members.

Description

Meeting: 15th Triennial Symposium of the International Society for Tropical Root Crops (ISTRC)

Keywords

RURAL WOMEN, BIODIVERSITY, ANDEAN ROOTS AND TUBERS, ANDES, BOLIVIA, ROOT CROPS, WOMEN IN AGRICULTURE, INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE, GENDER, DECISION MAKING, COMMERCIALIZATION, MEDICINAL PLANTS, PRODUCER GROUPS, PARTICIPATORY RESEARCH, INNOVATION ADOPTION