Strengthening of local organizations

This building block is about the work with regard to the recovery and strengthening of the organization of the Ayllu (a form of extended family group) and the traditional authorities for farming. We have worked to revalue the knowledge of breeding, (climate) signals, cultivation practices and the so-called "secrets" to deal as much as possible with all the variety of situations and circumstances that are determined by the climate.

The methodological approach has allowed an intercultural dialogue and cultural mediation, as well as communal observation to build trust and transparency and a solid support system. The practice of mutual accompaniment composed of technicians committed to the processes of decolonization and cultural affirmation of diversity, was very useful. The facilitation and accompaniment of community initiatives and learning in the context of cultural dialogue, with shared responsibilities between the "target group" and the ABA team, generates very dynamic and effective reflection and action processes.

This has facilitated the capacity for adapting to change and empowered people to recognize themselves as main actors in development, based essentially on local resources and capabilities and affirmation of culture.

Confidence in the community, which has allowed us to seek local solutions involving the key community members who maintain knowledge and ancestral practices.

The financing institution, ABA, forms part of the communal institutions and is recognized by the internal statutes of the Quispillaccta Indigenous Community. The members of its technical team belong to the community, which reinforces its indigenous coexistence with it and contributes to the positive Andean worldview.

  • The relationship with nature and cultural values has been strengthened, reinforcing a perspective of ecosystem service provision to the city of Huamanga.
  • It has been important to recognize that there are two radically different worldviews, which requires a respectful conversation between both sides: On the one hand, a living, nature-related worldview that reaffirms life through nurture; and on the other, a technical, western world vision that reaffirms the extractive position with respect to nature and its "natural resources “.
  • The communal and Ayllus organization is strengthened in order to face the climatic threats. Part of this is the revitalization of the traditional authorities, the Varayoc (mayor of indigenous community) takes care of the communal landscape and the surveillance of hail and frost. The strengthened local authorities enable the conservation of the natural environment.