Peru : SNV

The context: Vicuna is a wild ruminant living at over 4000 meters altitude in the Andes. The region is inhospitable to human activities and therefore very impoverished. Vicuna’s wool production represents a significant resource for Peruvian rural population. This wool is very fine, softer than cashmere, and thus very valuable.
Alpaca is another Andean camelid. The sale of its wool and meat also constitutes a source of income for local people.

A project to assist the local population: Since 2002 SOS Faim has been helping the SNV to preserve, protect and manage vicunas with the aim of enhancing social and economic development of the rural communities.

The processing conditions used to be far from optimal: trimming was done with scissors due to the lack of proper tools. Fibre quality was therefore lower, which decreased its market value. Processing facilities (for washing, straightening and spinning) were missing so the villagers were forced to sell raw wool, at a lower price.

Training and equipment bring results: SOS Faim support enabled the SNV to buy capturing and shearing equipment and to set up a wool processing facility. In 2004 a consortium, CAPCA (Consortium of the Associations of Andean Camelids’ Producers) was established. It ensures wool collection, processing and marketing. However, a new law liberalizing the sector adopted in 2004 posed a new threat to this activity vital for people from Peruvian highlands increasing competition and the risk of poaching.

Moreover, CAPCA supported by SOS Faim has started the construction of a mechanic treatment facility for processing alpaca’s fibre. It will help to generate a more important added value for the benefit of the villagers. This factory situated in Pisco will be opened in 2007.