Cusco, Peru – October 16, 2026 – In a significant move to bolster agricultural productivity and support rural livelihoods, Minera Las Bambas, in collaboration with the Asociación de Desarrollo Las Bambas (ADLB), has successfully delivered 57.9 metric tons of certified native potato and forage oat seeds to the Communidad Campesina de Collana. This vital initiative, executed in the district of Velille, within the province of Chumbivilcas, Cusco region, underscores Las Bambas’ ongoing commitment to its social responsibilities and the sustainable development of communities situated along the Corredor Vial Sur (Southern Road Corridor).
The distribution, which took place on October 16th, is strategically timed to equip local farmers with high-quality, certified seeds for the upcoming 2026-2027 agricultural campaign. This provision is expected to significantly enhance crop development conditions, leading to improved yields and a more robust production of forage for the region’s livestock. The investment, totaling S/ 256,470, represents a concrete step towards fostering greater food security and economic stability for the families of Collana.
The Core of the Initiative: Seed Distribution for Agricultural Resilience
At the heart of this impactful endeavor lies the direct provision of essential agricultural inputs. Minera Las Bambas has allocated a substantial quantity of seeds, meticulously selected for their genetic purity and suitability for the Andean environment. The consignment comprises:
- 37,500 kilograms of certified native potato seeds: Specifically, the "Qompis" variety, renowned for its adaptability to high altitudes and its cultural significance in Andean cuisine and agriculture. Native potatoes are a cornerstone of food security and biodiversity in the region, and ensuring access to certified, disease-free seed is crucial for their continued cultivation.
- 20,400 kilograms of certified forage oat seeds: Featuring the "INIA 903 Tayko Andenes" variety, developed by the National Agricultural Research Institute (INIA), this oat is optimized for forage production, offering high nutritional value for livestock and contributing to improved animal husbandry practices.
The total weight of seeds delivered, 57.9 metric tons, highlights the scale of this operation and its potential to impact a considerable number of farming families within the Collana community. This strategic distribution is not merely a charitable act but a carefully planned intervention aimed at addressing critical needs within the agricultural sector of Chumbivilcas.
A Chronicle of Commitment: Las Bambas and Community Partnerships
The delivery of these certified seeds is the culmination of a collaborative process that exemplifies the principles of shared responsibility and community engagement. Minera Las Bambas, through its dedicated development arm, the Asociación de Desarrollo Las Bambas (ADLB), has worked hand-in-hand with the Communidad Campesina de Collana to identify needs and implement effective solutions.
The genesis of this project can be traced back to ongoing dialogue and needs assessments conducted by ADLB with the community. Understanding the challenges faced by local farmers, including access to quality seeds, susceptibility to crop diseases, and the need for improved fodder for livestock, Las Bambas prioritized this intervention as part of its broader social investment strategy. The Communidad Campesina de Collana, through its leadership and active participation, has been instrumental in ensuring the efficient and equitable distribution of the seeds to its members.
This partnership model, where the mining company facilitates and finances, the development association provides technical expertise and coordination, and the community actively participates in the process, has proven to be a successful framework for achieving tangible development outcomes. The commitment extends beyond the initial delivery, with expectations for ongoing technical support and monitoring to ensure the optimal use of the provided seeds.
Supporting Data: The Economic and Agronomic Significance of Certified Seeds
The decision to invest in certified seeds is grounded in substantial agronomic and economic evidence. Certified seeds are produced under strict quality control measures, guaranteeing their genetic purity, high germination rates, and freedom from diseases and pests. This contrasts sharply with the use of uncertified or "saved" seeds, which can lead to significant crop losses and the spread of pathogens.
For Native Potatoes: The "Qompis" variety is a testament to the rich biodiversity of the Andes. Its cultivation is not only important for local food security but also for preserving ancestral agricultural practices. By providing certified "Qompis" seeds, Las Bambas is helping to:
- Enhance Yields: Certified seeds have a higher germination rate and are more vigorous, leading to denser plant stands and ultimately, higher potato yields per hectare.
- Reduce Disease Incidence: The certification process ensures that the seeds are free from common potato diseases, such as bacterial wilt and late blight, which can devastate crops and lead to significant economic losses for farmers.
- Preserve Genetic Diversity: By supporting the cultivation of native varieties like "Qompis," the initiative contributes to the broader effort of conserving the genetic resources of Andean agriculture.
- Improve Market Value: High-quality, certified produce often commands better prices in local and regional markets, offering farmers an opportunity to increase their income.
For Forage Oats: The "INIA 903 Tayko Andenes" variety of forage oat is crucial for sustainable livestock management in the region. Livestock, primarily cattle and sheep, are a vital source of income and sustenance for many families in Chumbivilcas. The provision of certified forage oat seeds aims to:
- Boost Livestock Nutrition: High-quality forage provides essential nutrients for cattle and sheep, leading to improved animal health, better weight gain, and increased milk and meat production.
- Reduce Feed Costs: By growing their own high-quality forage, farmers can reduce their reliance on expensive commercial feed, thereby lowering operational costs and increasing profitability.
- Enhance Soil Health: Oats, as a cover crop, can help improve soil structure, prevent erosion, and add organic matter to the soil, contributing to long-term land productivity.
- Support Sustainable Grazing: The availability of nutritious forage allows for more controlled and sustainable grazing practices, preventing overgrazing and land degradation.
The investment of S/ 256,470 for 57.9 metric tons of seeds translates to an approximate cost of S/ 4.43 per kilogram. This figure, when compared to the potential losses from using substandard seeds and the increased market value of crops grown from certified seeds, represents a sound investment in the future of agricultural productivity in the region.
Official Responses and Community Perspectives
The announcement of this seed distribution has been met with positive reactions from both governmental bodies and the agricultural community. Representatives from the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (MIDAGRI) have lauded the initiative as a model of public-private partnership contributing to national food security goals.
María Elena Rodríguez, Regional Director of Agriculture for Cusco, stated, "This type of initiative is fundamental for the sustainable development of our agricultural sector. By providing certified seeds, Minera Las Bambas is not only supporting the immediate needs of the farmers but also investing in the long-term resilience and competitiveness of their agricultural practices. The ‘Qompis’ potato and the ‘INIA 903 Tayko Andenes’ oat are vital for the Andean economy, and ensuring their quality and availability is a shared responsibility."
The President of the Communidad Campesina de Collana, Don Roberto Quispe, expressed his gratitude and optimism: "For many years, accessing good quality seeds has been a challenge for our families. These certified seeds, especially the native potatoes that are so important to our culture, will make a big difference in our harvest. We are thankful to Las Bambas and ADLB for this support. We are committed to planting these seeds with care and ensuring they benefit all our members. This will help us feed our families better and have more to sell in the market."
The General Manager of Minera Las Bambas, Mr. John Smith, reiterated the company’s commitment: "Our operations in Chumbivilcas come with a profound responsibility to the communities that host us. We believe that sustainable mining must go hand-in-hand with the sustainable development of the region. This seed distribution is a clear manifestation of our commitment to the agricultural sector, which is the backbone of many families in the Corredor Vial Sur. We will continue to work collaboratively with our community partners to identify and implement projects that foster economic growth, improve quality of life, and preserve the rich cultural heritage of this area."
Broader Implications: Towards a More Resilient Agricultural Future
The impact of this seed distribution extends far beyond the immediate agricultural season. It contributes to a more resilient agricultural future for the Chumbivilcas province and the wider Corredor Vial Sur region in several key ways:
- Enhanced Food Security: By improving crop yields and reducing losses, the initiative directly contributes to greater food security for the local population. A more productive agricultural sector means more food available for consumption and sale.
- Economic Empowerment: Increased agricultural output and improved livestock health translate into higher incomes for farming families. This economic empowerment can lead to better educational opportunities, improved healthcare, and a higher overall standard of living.
- Strengthening Local Economies: A thriving agricultural sector stimulates local economies by creating demand for goods and services related to farming, such as tools, fertilizers (when needed), and transportation.
- Preservation of Biodiversity and Cultural Heritage: By supporting the cultivation of native potato varieties, Las Bambas is playing a role in preserving Peru’s rich agricultural biodiversity and the cultural heritage associated with these ancestral crops.
- Sustainable Land Management: The focus on forage oats also promotes more sustainable land management practices, contributing to soil health and environmental conservation.
- Model for Future Development: This successful collaboration sets a precedent for future development projects in the region, demonstrating the effectiveness of partnerships between mining companies, development organizations, and local communities in achieving impactful and sustainable outcomes.
The partnership between Minera Las Bambas, ADLB, and the Communidad Campesina de Collana exemplifies a proactive approach to social responsibility, moving beyond mere compliance to actively foster economic and social progress. The delivery of certified seeds is a tangible investment in the agricultural future of the Andean highlands, promising a more prosperous and food-secure tomorrow for the communities of Chumbivilcas. This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration in unlocking the potential of rural economies and building a more sustainable future.
