Stevia
1 year later
Antonio has started the cultivation of Stevia with farmers in the subtropical region of La Paz.
Stevia is a plant native to America which replaces sugar (it is 200—450 times sweeter than sugar). It is a healthy product, recommended for people who suffer from diabetes or who are on a diet.
Groups of farmers have been organised and the first Stevia has been planted. First official sales are expected in February 2007.
with:
| Country | Bolivia |
|---|---|
| Total investment | €14,335 (€12.090 ICCO finance + €1.725 Semilla €520 own investment) |
| Turnover | expected in February 2007 (sold some 100 kg. on an experimental basis) |
| Direct employment | 60 people engaged in stevia production. 5 people engaged in selling stevia leaves and promoting the product. |
| Indirect employment | (expected as of February 2007) |
| Contribution to Millennium Goals | The training of 60 farmers (mostly women) on the technical aspects of stevia growing. |
Achievements
- In September 2005 we established cooperation with ICCO: financial support for a stevia-growing pilot in the Subtropical region of La Paz. Semilla, the local partner organisation, provides institutional support.
- Technical advisor on stevia hired.
- Between September-December 2005 we established contacts with stevia leaf producers (farmers) in the pilot area and organized the groups of farmers interested in stevia.
- In December 2005-January 2006 stevia seeds were purchased.
- In March-April 2006 the stevia seedlings were planted.
- In June-July 2006, agreements with some potential stevia leaf buyers.
Challenges
A drastic change of climatic conditions in the selected area (an extreme drought) has caused the loss of more than 60% of the plantations and has delayed the growth of the remaining plants. For the future selection of farmers we will look for places where water for irrigation is easily available.
We have to beat the competition and sell the stevia leaves at lower prices than competitors. The growing market for stevia is promising.
Plans for 2007
We want to further develop a sales network, through an intensive campaign adrressed to potential stevia consumers and through contacts with new firms or individuals interested in buying stevia.
We have contacts with funding organisations that are willing to support a project that will enhance the production of stevia through the organisation of small farmers in different locations. There are also institutions interested in buying the stevia leaves and providing access to credit.
