Peru: Ancash will host the IX Meeting of Native Potato Guardians
This important event aims to strengthen the role of the custodians of native potatoes, who protect not only the genetic diversity of this valuable crop, but also the cultural identity and food sovereignty of our country.
On July 16 and 17, the city of Huaraz, in the Ancash region, will host the IX Meeting of Native Potato Guardians, a space for exchange, reflection and action that will bring together more than 100 farmers from the regions of Ancash, Ayacucho, Cusco, Huancavelica, Huánuco, Junín, La Libertad, Lima and Pasco, as well as invited delegations from Chile and Bolivia, interested in learning about the organizational experience of the Peruvian guardians and the work of the Association of Native Potato Guardians of Peru (AGUAPAN).
This important event aims to strengthen the role of native potato custodians, who protect not only the genetic diversity of this valuable crop, but also our country’s cultural identity and food sovereignty. It will also address the major challenges facing farmers, such as the food crisis, climate change, and the need for public policies that protect seeds and community labor.
On Wednesday, July 16, the event will begin with an opening ceremony in the city of Huaraz, attended by local authorities, representatives of partner organizations, and community leaders. The day will feature workshops and panels on the current situation in the sector, farmers’ rights, the effects of climate change, and market opportunities for native potatoes. The admission of new guardians, who have submitted their applications to join the AGUAPAN network, will also be discussed, and special recognition will be given to the former guardians, in recognition of their commitment and track record in agrobiodiversity conservation.
At the Annual Meeting of Associates, key topics will be discussed, such as participation in fairs and markets, the decentralization of AGUAPAN, and, most notably, the proposed Native Seed Protection Law, an initiative that seeks to safeguard Peru’s genetic heritage and guarantee the rights of the farmers who conserve them.
The day will conclude with a cultural exchange, where participants will share music, dances, and customs from their respective regions, highlighting the diversity that enriches Peru.
On Thursday, July 17, a colorful parade will travel through the main streets of Huaraz, showcasing the cultural and agricultural richness of the different boroughs. The event will then open the highly anticipated Native Potato Seed Exchange Fair, which this year will take place at the facilities of the Ancash Regional Directorate of Agriculture.
In this space, farmers will be able to exchange seeds, share knowledge, and engage in dialogue with representatives from institutions such as AGUAPAN, the Yanapai Group, the International Potato Center (CIP), the National Institute of Agrarian Innovation (INIA), and others.
In addition, the Bolivian and Chilean delegations will actively participate in the activities, seeking to learn more about Peru’s experience in native potato conservation and strengthening farmers’ rights.
With this IX Meeting, the guardians of native potatoes renew their commitment to defending the seeds, the territories, and the culture that surrounds them, demonstrating that biodiversity and farmers’ rights are fundamental pillars for the present and future of Peru.
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