The construction of three advanced greenhouses in Atumpata Alta, within the province of Abancay, Peru, is poised to significantly impact the local strawberry industry. Launched under the PROCOMPITE 2024 initiative, this project represents a collaborative effort by the Municipalidad Provincial de Abancay (MPA) and local agricultural organizations. Designed to strengthen rural economies and improve agricultural competitiveness, the greenhouses will provide local farmers with the necessary infrastructure to enhance their strawberry yields while using water more efficiently.
Each greenhouse, covering an area of 270 m², is equipped with a modern drip irrigation system and a geomembrane water reservoir. This technology allows for the optimized use of water, a crucial resource in strawberry cultivation, ensuring sustainable production throughout the year. The introduction of this system is particularly significant in a region where water management is a challenge, and efficient irrigation can lead to higher yields and reduced resource wastage.
The project is funded by the Programa de Competitividad Productiva – PROCOMPITE 2024, with a total investment exceeding 200,000 soles. This co-financed initiative involves the local municipality and agricultural economic organizations (AEOs), demonstrating a shared commitment to boosting the productive capacity of the region. By enabling year-round strawberry production, the project aims to improve the income of local farmers and create a more prosperous rural economy.
The implementation of these greenhouses also aligns with broader strategies set forth by the MPA to promote rural development and ensure equitable access to productive resources. In addition to the immediate benefits of improved strawberry yields, the long-term goal is to create self-sustaining farming systems that can adapt to future economic and environmental challenges.
According to recent data, greenhouse cultivation has proven to increase strawberry yields by up to 30% compared to open-field cultivation. Moreover, the controlled environment within the greenhouse protects the crops from pests and extreme weather conditions, which are becoming increasingly common due to climate change. The introduction of these structures in Atumpata Alta, therefore, offers a significant advantage to the local farmers, allowing them to maintain high-quality production standards and potentially access larger markets.
For farmers and agricultural engineers, the PROCOMPITE 2024 project offers valuable insights into the integration of modern agricultural technologies with traditional farming practices. The use of advanced irrigation systems and infrastructure like greenhouses is a model for other rural areas looking to enhance productivity while conserving resources. Furthermore, this project highlights the importance of government and local organization partnerships in driving agricultural innovation and economic growth in rural communities.
The PROCOMPITE 2024 initiative in Abancay is a critical step toward transforming the agricultural landscape in the region. By introducing modern greenhouse and irrigation technologies, local strawberry producers are positioned to significantly increase their yields while promoting sustainable resource use. This project not only strengthens the rural economy but also sets a benchmark for future agricultural innovations in Peru.
