COOMATAVÉN, the Indigenous Cooperative established within the framework of the REDD+ Matavén Project, participated in two key events that are helping reactivate the local economy in the department of Guainía, Colombia. These spaces promote the growth of community-led initiatives and reinforce the productive capacities of Indigenous families across the territory.
On November 28 and 29, COOMATAVÉN took part in the Economic Reactivation Fair organized by the Government of Guainía, a platform created to support producers affected by the recent rainy season. On November 30, the cooperative also participated in the Farmers’ Fair convened by the Mayor’s Office of Inírida as part of the Strengthening Popular Economies event.
In both events, COOMATAVÉN presented a stand showcasing products created by the Indigenous communities of Cumaral, Laguna Negra, and San Luis de la Rompida. The exhibition included processed cacao, cacao for beverages, cacao seedlings, mañoco, and traditional crafts from the Piaroa and Curripaco peoples. These encounters opened new commercial opportunities with buyers and institutions interested in supporting local economies. The cooperative also shared updates on the conservation process underway in the territory through the REDD+ Matavén Project and distributed the newspaper highlighting achievements from the year.
Participation in these regional fairs reflects the relevance of having an Indigenous cooperative that articulates members of the productive projects advancing across Matavén. COOMATAVÉN drives economic development by strengthening community autonomy and expanding commercial capacities, while supporting the protection of forests, water sources, and biodiversity. Through these efforts, families access sustainable livelihood opportunities connected to the conservation of their territory.
These events also help position Indigenous work in regional markets, highlighting the value chains built by the communities and strengthening relationships with strategic partners.
REDD+ Matavén reaffirms its commitment to the sustainable development of the territory and to community processes that align forest conservation with the well-being and future of the Indigenous communities of Matavén.