Producer Profiles

El Guabo - Asocación Pequeños Productores Bananeros El Guabo

The Asociación de Pequeños Productores Bananeros El Guabo (El Guabo) has been a Fair Trade pioneer since its foundation in 1998. The members of El Guabo are spread across a vast area of South-central Ecuador, impacting large sections of rainforest that benefit from the Fair Trade environmental standards of production. El Guabo members became Fair Trade Certified™ to commercialize their small, individual productions collectively and reach sustainable levels of socio-economic development.
 

Quotable

“

We are securing larger amounts of high-quality fruit, which will increase our income by selling more boxes. The supplies warehouse allows us to access quality materials at a low price.  ”

Ramón Saenz, Farmer and General Assembly Member
“

Until recently, I had little understanding about [El Guabo]. These workshops provide very useful information. I study Business Marketing and feel that my knowledge as a professional will help the organization’s strength.  ”

Victor Chamaidán, son of El Guabo member
“

The best thing El Guabo has done so far is this course on the company's history, because it allows us to get to know the organization and prepare ourselves to continue our parents' work. We can also contribute to the development of small agriculture. I am a university student and this course is also very helpful for my professional development.  ”

Luis Suárez Jr., son of El Guabo members

Programs

Organizational Strengthening

Through Fair Trade premiums, El Guabo’s own Leadership School is now providing free trainings on the cooperative’s history. Additionally, the school offers a managerial program for members and their children to improve operational effectiveness. El Guabo is encouraging a new generation of leaders to take ownership and continue the cooperative’s work in years to come.

Health Programs for Young and Old

With Fair Trade premiums, El Guabo funded a medical clinic that provided care to producers, workers, and the entire community. A separate program was funded to provide seniors with specialized healthcare, and another initiative, in alliance with the Ministry of Public Health and the Ecuadorian Institute of Social Security, provided Health Clinics to communities that lacked access to healthcare.

Community Support in Times of Crisis

This program serves as insurance for members who may need extra assistance for any unexpected activity. This may include supporting workers’ families in case of death, providing assistance to seriously ill workers or family members, and sending food baskets to workers and their families in times of crisis.