Ecuador
Context
Ecuador has been part of the FFF programme since 2018.
Operating within the national paradigm of "Buen Vivir" (living well) and a commitment to a public bioeconomy, the FFF supports Indigenous Peoples, including Kichwa and Shuar, and smallholders to transition from subsistence and artisanal production to sustainable, diversified enterprises. This includes support to revitalize ancestral systems, boost innovation, develop inclusive financial mechanisms and enhance digital leadership and compliance.
Communities cultivate their plots using the traditional Chakra agroforestry system which works in harmony with “Pacha Mama” (Mother Nature). Chakras integrate up to 80 plant species on a single farm, supporting biodiversity, soil health and food security.
In 2025, the FFF supported 18 forest and farm producer organizations across the Amazon, Andes and coastal regions of the country. This represents almost 6 000 members.
Contacts
Coach:
[email protected]
Facilitator:
[email protected]
Products
Key products cultivated include cocoa, coffee, guayusa and vanilla as well as agroforestry products such as avocado, bananas, mango, cassava, achiote and other native spices.
Honey, handicrafts and ecotourism also provide additional income for some groups.
Highlights
- Production and markets
Forest and farm producer organizations have demonstrated the transformative impact of merging ancestral wisdom with modern market innovation. With support from the FFF, they have successfully expanded the positioning of the Amazonian Chakra as a globally recognized agroforestry model. The “Chakra Seal” and Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS) have enabled producers to access high-value international markets for their fine aroma cocoa, guayusa, macambo and vanilla.
- Embracing innovation
Cocoa agroforestry producers, such as Kallari, are leading the way in digital innovation, youth inclusion and technical leadership. They are implementing advanced traceability software and QR codes to ensure that their production processes meet the stringent requirements of deforestation-free production regulations.
- Strengthening social services
Community-led microfinance mechanisms are a vital way for rural farmers to access money. With support from the FFF, the UNORCAC Women's Committee implemented a comprehensive financial education programme and its own in-kind loan fund. Loans of up to USD 800 per person have helped women diversify their farms and build climate resilience by ensuring multiple sources of income and food.
- Media article - Onda Rural: First meeting of the FFF benefits 552 families in Napo - 19 March 2019 (in Spanish)
Videos
- Muyu Raymi National Seed Fair 2023 (in Spanish)
- Forest and Farm Facility - CIESPAL - October 2018 (in Spanish)
- Video about Cocoa Producers - Wiñak Association, Napo (in Spanish)
- Tsatsayaku Amazonian Chocolate - Napo, Ecuador (in Spanish)