It emerged as an alternative solution to the unsustainable practice of indiscriminate tree felling, which had been a source of income for local Indigenous communities in the past. This Indigenous enterprise has the support and endorsement of the Native Federation of the Madre de Dios River and its tributaries (FENAMAD).
The Amazon nut is a natural source of omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids, essential amino acids, vitamin E, and selenium, which are associated with potential health benefits, including a possible reduction in the risk of cancer. It's produced in only three countries worldwide: Bolivia, Brazil, and Peru. The nuts are collected sustainably, helping preserve the forest's ecological equilibrium in the long run.
AFIMAD works with local communities to sustainably collect, transform, and market Amazon nuts and derived products, which are sold directly to national and international markets. The association brings together 12 native communities belonging to nine different Indigenous Peoples (Ese-eja, Shipibo Konibo, Kichwa Runa, Yine, Sapiteri, Harakbut, Matsiguenka, Asháninka, and Amahuaca). With AFIMAD's support, association members also engage in sustainable fishing and, in some cases, sell artisan goods to support their families.
AFIMAD provides training to its members, supporting them in obtaining organic and Fairtrade certifications and meeting international demands. The members also receive support to implement harvesting and post-harvesting activities that foster biological diversity, including forest conservation programmes.
Programme support
AFIMAD has recently expanded its business line to include the collection of murumuru, also known as huicungo, a nutritious fruit which is peeled and primarily sold as butter for use in the cosmetics industry. With programme’s support, AFIMAD will employ 100 women to collect murumuru, offering a new line of work for Indigenous women in the region.
Additionally, AFIMAD will receive the working capital required to develop this new product line and the guidance to establish forest management standards, access the legal permissions required for the collection of forest resources, and strengthen its governance.
