AMPA is a non-profit organization dedicated to conserving the natural and cultural heritage, and to improving the quality of life and sustainable territorial development of the peoples of Andean Amazon. In 2006, we began with the dream of protecting life, forming a family of brave men and women committed to the conservation of the Andean Amazon. We have taken on the challenge of managing the High Huayabamba Concession for Conservation (CCAH), one of the largest–as well as one of the most hydrologically valuable–conservation areas in Peru, protecting 143,928.09 ha of páramo in the central mountain range as well as mountain forests, or yungas.

In the following 10 years we have proudly initiated new processes for administrating and maintaining this territory. Through our programs for Culture & Communications, Conservation, Green Economies, and Public Policy Desde, we have promoted sustainable management of the Concession’s natural resources, competitive economic activities, the reaffirmation of cultural identity, and strengthening of political processes, always keeping gender equality and intercultural participation prominent in our strategies. With initiatives such as “Sustainable Gastronomy” and “Ecosystem Services and Value Chains,” we have established projects that promote the development of sustainable production (cultivation of quinoa and wild honey) throughout the communities located in the CCAH and its zone of influence.

We currently work with 50 families from the Bolívar province, who are organized into associations such as the Association of Beekeepers (APA) and the Association of Quinoa Producers (APRODEQUI). These producers are the true beneficiaries of the resources provided by the concession. By producing 100% organic products, we guarantee financial stability for the CCAH, generating incentives that facilitate monitoring within the territory. In addition, commercializing these products contributes to improving farmer family incomes, creating a positive multiplying effect that improves quality of life and provides food security for one of the poorest provinces in our nation.

Through this work we have seen how such initiatives cannot be sustainable without the commitment that these families have taken on. Through their involvement and enthusiasm to learn, these families have made possible a group effort for conservation, strengthened by the formation of association and taking on new leadership to guarantee the continuation of these efforts.