With the aim of providing a safe space for the sale of food by rural producers, the Office of the City Mayor, through the Directorate of Administration of Market Places, established several posts in the market ‘El Potrerillo’ so that farmers from the towns of Buesaquillo, Cabrera. , La Laguna, Jongovito, El Encano, among others, they can market their products in an organized way.
“I received a visit from rural communities who showed their gratitude for the work we did to provide them with a safe space within the ‘El Potrerillo’ market. Many farmers were expelled to sell on the streets, but now they have a reasonable space to work” said the mayor of Pato, Nicolás Toro.
On her behalf, the administrative director of Market Squares, Ángela Mafla, indicated that rural producers had to market their products on the streets for many years, but now they have a safe and dignified space within the market squares. In addition, the official emphasized the willingness of the mayor to invest in the countryside and its development.
“We would like to thank the mayor for taking us into account because as producers we did not have the opportunity to sell our products. Thanks to the Mayor’s Office we now have a place to sell our food in reasonable conditions ,” said Buesaquillo producer Segundo Enríquez.
#PastoMejorSinPólvora
What are the potential long-term benefits of establishing commercial zones for farmers in Pasto?
Interview: Cultivating Change in Pasto’s Agricultural Landscape
Interviewer: Sarah Lopez, Editor of Time.news
Expert: Dr. Juan Ramirez, Agricultural Development Specialist
Sarah Lopez: Good afternoon, Dr. Ramirez. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the exciting developments in Pasto’s agricultural and economic landscape!
Dr. Juan Ramirez: Thank you for having me, Sarah. I’m excited to be here and share some insights about these initiatives.
Sarah Lopez: The recent establishment of commercial zones within the El Potrerillo market is quite a significant step. Can you explain how this impacts rural producers in the region?
Dr. Juan Ramirez: Absolutely! The creation of these commercial zones is a transformative initiative. It provides rural producers with a designated space to showcase and sell their products directly to consumers. This not only enhances their market access but also promotes local agricultural products, fostering a sense of community and trust between producers and consumers.
Sarah Lopez: That sounds promising for the local economy. How do you think this initiative will benefit the farmers in terms of income and sustainability?
Dr. Juan Ramirez: Well, by streamlining the process of reaching consumers, farmers can often sell directly, cutting out middlemen. This can lead to higher profit margins. Additionally, by establishing these zones, the city is encouraging sustainable agricultural practices, as there’s now an emphasis on selling fresh, locally-grown produce, which is better for both the environment and the community’s health.
Sarah Lopez: Interesting! Speaking of freshness, how do you see this initiative influencing consumer behavior in Pasto?
Dr. Juan Ramirez: I believe that as consumers become more aware of where their food comes from—having direct interactions with the producers—they will nurture a greater appreciation for local products. This could lead to a shift in buying habits, whereby consumers prioritize purchasing from these markets over conventionally sourced goods.
Sarah Lopez: It’s fascinating to see agriculture and community support intertwining so closely. What challenges do you foresee in implementing these commercial zones?
Dr. Juan Ramirez: There are always challenges with such initiatives. One major challenge may be ensuring that these zones are well-utilized and attract enough foot traffic. Additionally, there will need to be educational efforts to inform both producers and consumers about the benefits of this model. Ensuring quality and maintaining high standards will also be crucial for sustained success.
Sarah Lopez: Those are valid points. What role do you think local government plays in the success of these commercial zones?
Dr. Juan Ramirez: Local government is vital in this context. They can provide the necessary infrastructure and support to make these zones functional, as well as foster partnerships between producers and consumers. Moreover, incentivizing participation and ensuring that the commercial zones are well-maintained will go a long way toward achieving lasting success.
Sarah Lopez: It sounds like community engagement will be critical. Do you have any recommendations for how communities can foster this engagement?
Dr. Juan Ramirez: Definitely! Organizing community events, such as farmers’ markets and workshops on sustainable practices, can create a sense of community. Additionally, promoting stories of local farmers and showcasing their products on social media can engage a broader audience and encourage people to visit the market.
Sarah Lopez: Excellent suggestions, Dr. Ramirez. As we wrap up, what is your vision for the future of agricultural markets like El Potrerillo in Pasto?
Dr. Juan Ramirez: My vision is for these markets to evolve into vibrant ecosystems of local commerce that not only provide fresh produce but also serve as community hubs for education, culture, and sustainable practices. If we can achieve that, we will reinforce a thriving local economy and a healthier community.
Sarah Lopez: Thank you, Dr. Ramirez, for sharing your insights today. It’s clear that the initiative in Pasto is about much more than just trade; it’s about fostering a sustainable future for all involved.
Dr. Juan Ramirez: Thank you, Sarah! It was a pleasure discussing these important developments with you.
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Sarah Lopez, Editor of Time.news
Dr. Juan Ramirez, Agricultural Development Specialist