Celebrating the Legacy of Andean Custodian Farmers at the International Day of Potato
In a monumental tribute to the custodian farmers and their invaluable contributions to the preservation and diversity of potato cultivation, the International Day of Potato witnessed a remarkable representation of Andean heritage. Among the distinguished guests at the FAO event in Rome stood Victor Anco from Huarochiri, Lima, and Martha Mamani from Paucartambo, Cusco, two custodian farmers whose farms serve as repositories for over 200 landraces of potatoes.
The significance of their presence cannot be overstated. It is a testament to the profound connection between indigenous peoples, their traditional knowledge, and the preservation of agricultural biodiversity. As articulated in the declaration of the General Assembly of the United Nations, indigenous communities, through their age-old practices rooted in living in harmony with nature, have been the custodians of the potato in its myriad forms, safeguarding it for present and future generations.
The elevation of Anco and Mamani to the forefront of this global event is a momentous step towards acknowledging the vital role of custodian farmers in the realm of agriculture. Their stewardship of landraces reflects a deep-seated commitment to preserving genetic diversity and ensuring food security in an ever-changing world.
This recognition also underscores the collaborative efforts of organizations such as the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Agrico, HZPC, MiskiPapa de AGUAPAN, McKnight Foundation, FAO, and the International Potato Center (CIP) in supporting initiatives that honor and empower custodian farmers.
As we celebrate the International Day of Potato, let us pay homage to the guardians of potato heritage, whose unwavering dedication sustains not only a crop but also a cultural legacy deeply rooted in the Andean mountains.
