The Kuska project funded by Urapi and managed by Ecotierra was established with a clear mission: to strengthen the governance of coffee cooperatives and generate meaningful impacts in coffee-producing communities. This initiative places an even stronger emphasis on cooperative governance than previous projects, aiming to build robust structures, promote transparency, and enhance producers' self-management capacity. The goal is to ensure that the growth of their organizations remains both equitable and sustainable in the long term.
Introducing the Kuska Project
The Kuska Project marks a significant step in transforming the cooperative model in Quillabamba. This collaboration between Urapi and COCLA responds to the need to elevate COCLA’s role as a leader in sustainable coffee and cocoa production. With over 1,000 associated producers, COCLA has immense growth potential, and the Kuska Project is designed to solidify its leadership in developing fair and resilient value chains.
Kuska’s Initiatives: Building the Future of Cooperatives
The name Kuska, meaning "together" in Quechua, embodies the spirit of this initiative: joining forces to create a real impact. Through training, technical assistance, and improvements in organizational structure, Kuska promotes more efficient cooperative management and encourages active member participation. This collective effort not only strengthens organizations but also empowers producers in their decision-making processes.
Strengthening Governance and Sustainability
A key pillar of the governance component is the training and education of cooperative members. A comprehensive program has been developed covering essential topics such as financial management, leadership, cooperative culture, sustainability, and the coffee market. Each module is designed to provide producers with knowledge they can apply to the daily development of their cooperatives and coffee farms.
In parallel, a governance assessment has been conducted to identify strengths and areas for improvement within the cooperatives. This analysis is crucial for designing tailored strategies, ensuring that each organization receives the necessary support for growth and reinforcement.
Transparency and Accountability
A core aspect of the project is education in governance. Members must understand their rights and responsibilities, as well as the decision-making mechanisms within their cooperatives. Workshops promote a culture of transparency, ensuring that producers actively participate in the management of their organizations and contribute to their sustainability.
Team members of Ecotierra, Cocla and Kuska at the Kuska Milling facility
Economic and Social Impact
Effective governance not only organizes the internal life of cooperatives but also opens doors to new economic opportunities. Thanks to the Kuska Project, cooperatives are now better positioned to access more competitive markets and favorable financing options. This not only enables fairer prices for their coffee but also improves the living conditions of producers and their families.
Environmental Sustainability: A Fundamental Pillar
The Kuska Project recognizes that environmental sustainability is inseparable from cooperative development. Strategies have been integrated to promote responsible land use, conserve natural resources, and adapt to climate change. Through best agricultural practices and reforestation programs, producers are strengthening the resilience of their crops, ensuring the viability of their lands for future generations.
New roasting machine installed at the Kuska dry mill facility for local supply.
Final Thoughts
Since its inception (end of 2023), the Kuska Project has demonstrated that true transformation begins with the mindset of producers. By strengthening their cooperatives and taking a more active role in organizational management, members have developed a renewed sense of belonging and commitment to their community.
The key message is clear: solid governance is the foundation for the sustainable development of coffee cooperatives. Through collaboration, education, and transparency, we are laying the groundwork for a stronger, more equitable, and resilient cooperative model.
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