Contribution in the dinamization process of peasant organizations to produce quality pea seeds in Nariño

Abstract

Integration of seeds in technological packages has become a crucial component of commerce and agricultural industrialization in order to increase profitability and productivity of systems that are prioritized by segments of the industry. However, a meaningful range of regional crops with a wide, social, economic, and productive zones have a weak supply of quality seeds that guarantee productivity and improve the efficacy of the activity. 20 000 families rely on the 13 589 hectares of pea (Pisum sativum L.) that are strategically and economically developed in the Nariño-Colombian southwest department, although the quality of the seeds available is poor. In order to solve this problem, the Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria (AGROSAVIA) implemented the Plan Nacional de Semillas strategy. This strategy aims to establish a technical model for high-quality seed production in small and large farmers by enhancing their organizational, product commercialization, and productive capacities. Four producers in four municipal organizations profited from a participatory action that promotes the development of skills and the improvement of capacity to produce high-quality seeds within the framework of PNS´ pea. The findings showed that PNS´ pea helped to reconstitute the social network, organizational dynamics, and association engagement besides to acknowledging improved cultural practices. Producers associated with the projects continue to face gaps in improving infrastructure and provision, diversifying marketing channels, and expanding their business portfolios.