In Ecuador, the cultivation of pitahaya, or dragon fruit, is gaining traction among the Shuar communities, the nation's second-largest Indigenous group. Juan Chamik, a local farmer, illustrates the challenges of growing this demanding crop in the Amazon, emphasizing the labor-intensive nature of maintaining the plants without the use of pesticides. Despite these hurdles, the Shuar people are optimistic about the potential of dragon fruit to enhance their economic standing.
The introduction of dragon fruit to the region began with the distribution of 9,000 seeds, valued at approximately US$. $9,000, to promote economic independence among Indigenous populations. This initiative, led by the Shuar themselves, aims to boost local production for export. Germán Tsamarenda, president of the Etsa reserve, highlighted the community's success in exporting to markets such as the United States, Canada, China, and Russia, while maintaining cultural integrity.
The community's efforts are supported by a collective push for improved rural infrastructure to facilitate the growth of the dragon fruit market. This grassroots movement has sparked hope and a sense of purpose among the Shuar, as they work towards achieving greater economic sovereignty and showcasing their progress to a global audience through digital platforms.
Source: yesmagazine.org