Visit Aims

Yorini and Dilwyn had a number of aims from the visit, but as time flew by they had to keep reminding themselves of the fundamental priorities:  for Yorini to meet old friends and experience life in the UK, while at the same time seeking help for his communities most important needs.

The aims, therefore, divided up in the following way.  Most were achieved, though to some extent the last two fell off the end of the list.  These can be worked on in the meantime – perhaps before Yorini's next visit.

AGRO-FORESTRY
- exploring organic and fairtrade certification to find out more about the advantages and the process
- how to establish Ashaninka producer groups and identify the potential benefits
- how to maximise local processing (e.g. sesame seeds to oil, cacao / chocolate) and minimize the need to buy products in
- assistance with accessing markets (Satipo, Lima, export)

WASTE RESOURCE
- the recycling and disposal of plastic and other rubbish
- disposal of batteries
- waste water

NATURAL FERTILISER PRODUCTION
- composting of organic materials
- production of organic fertisilers

RENEWABLE ENERGY
- solar system training (Yorini is already a good solar electric technician)
- visit hydro and wind installations
- During his visit Yorini became particularly interested in hydro power, especially for its potential to support his carpentry workshop

WOODEN SHINGLES
- Yorini arrived with the idea that wooden shingle roofs could be a good thing for him to develop in his workshop.  Palms frond roofs are traditional, but many people are moving over th corrugated iron roofs which over longevity but cost money and also have to be brought in by road, canoe and on foot.  He researched shingles in Wales at CAT and a local manufacturer.  Shingles could be a good self-sufficient alternative to tin, offering longevity and being made from a readily available local resource.  Yorini also looked at slate stone cutting and timber frame building.   One of the things that impressed him the most about Wales was the ecological nature of using local stone for a more or less permanent roof.

BOOK
- Dilwyn and Yorini spent many hours discussing ideas and recording anecdotes for an ethno-historical book about the Ashaninka over the last 30 years

ECO-TOURISM
- establishment of Ashaninka Association of tour guides and operators
- training for guides, boatmen, porters and cooks
- funding for clearing trails and building small visitor tambo-huts
- river travel equipment (inflatable rafts, canoe with motor)
- safety and health facilities (located at Cutivireni)
- small tourist lodge facility (located at Cutivireni)
- assistance with marketing

ECO-TRIBAL
- sesame seeds, cocoa, coffee, artesania
- promote eco-tours to tour and travel companies, press and media