The 5th edition of the Productive and Gastronomic Fair “Concepción Creates, Produces, and Ventures,” held on May 3rd and 4th, has become a key event for showcasing the productive, entrepreneurial, and cultural potential of indigenous and peasant communities in the municipality of Concepción, in the department of Santa Cruz, Bolivia.
The event, which brought together producers, entrepreneurs, and artisans from various communities, was the result of inter-institutional collaboration led by the Autonomous Municipal Government of Concepción, with support from local and regional organizations such as the Center for Research and Promotion of the Peasantry (CIPCA Bolivia), a member of the Red Comparte network.
CIPCA Bolivia: Promoting Agroecology, Solidarity Economy, and Gender Equity
For years, CIPCA Bolivia has worked alongside indigenous and peasant communities in Concepción to support their transition toward agroecological production systems, strengthen community economies, and empower women. As a result of this work, the fair featured a wide variety of local agricultural products (such as rice, cassava, plantain, corn, and oranges), as well as processed goods including oils, shampoos, soaps, and non-timber forest products, all created by associations that receive technical and organizational support from CIPCA.
One of the most prominent aspects of the fair was the direct support for Peasant and Indigenous Economic Organizations (OECI) and women-led ventures, which participated with innovative and high-quality products. This support focuses not only on production but also on market linkage, business management, and the promotion of gender equity and women’s empowerment.
“Our work aims to help communities strengthen their food sovereignty, increase their income, and preserve their territories and forests. The fair is a showcase of these collective efforts,” said CIPCA technical staff during the event.
A Fair with Identity and Territorial Commitment
The fair also served as a space for cultural exchange and recognition of the creativity and dedication of the communities. Stalls were evaluated by a judging panel that awarded the best presentations in terms of display, cultural identity, and product transformation. The closing event included traditional dances, samples of local cuisine, and artistic performances by guest communities.
During the closing ceremony, the Municipal Government of Concepción acknowledged the fair’s impact on boosting the local economy and announced the allocation of a dedicated site for holding future editions on a permanent basis. This announcement responds to a long-standing demand from local organizations, also supported by CIPCA, to have an institutionalized space that strengthens the municipality’s productive and cultural development.
CIPCA Bolivia Reaffirms Its Commitment to Sustainable Rural Development
The success of this fair is a tangible expression of CIPCA Bolivia’s work model, where agroecological production, local economic development, gender equity, and environmental sustainability come together to empower peasant and indigenous communities across the country.