Ministry Launches Peanut Cultivation Initiative in Rural Community
On August 11, 2024, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock kicked off an initiative to promote peanut cultivation in the Chontayaku community, Muyuna parish, Tena canton. This collaborative effort involves 20 local families.
The primary goal of this activity is to introduce peanuts as a nutritious dietary staple for rural families, specifically focusing on enhancing child nutrition.
Peanuts are renowned for their numerous health benefits. Rich in protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and essential minerals, regular peanut consumption contributes to cardiovascular health improvement, cognitive function, and sustained energy. Additionally, their therapeutic properties aid in immune response, wound healing, and overall recovery.
Furthermore, the initiative aims to generate surplus production, enabling local farmers to sell their harvests on the domestic market. This not only ensures economic sustainability for families but also improves their quality of life.
The Ministry has established demonstration plots where producers can learn and apply cultivation techniques under the guidance of experienced professionals. These practical sessions empower families to independently cultivate their own peanut crops, fostering agricultural knowledge transfer.
“Our aim is to empower every household in this sector to cultivate their own peanut crops, utilizing the best practices showcased in our demonstration plots,” stated José Valarezo, territorial technician of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock. “This initiative will not only bolster community food security but also open new economic avenues for local producers.”
Moisés Calapucha, community president, emphasized the importance of encouraging each family to cultivate peanuts, both for personal consumption and sale, to generate income and improve their children’s education and overall well-being.
This pilot project exemplifies the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock’s commitment to rural development and sustainable agriculture, with potential for replication in other regions of the province.