Since they received the 2007 SEED Award, “Nueva Vida” (New Life), based in the Ecuadorian Andes, has been able to make progress through new partnerships.

The partnership, led by a women's organisation, makes jam from several of the re-introduced native tubers which in part is used in chocolates.

Their re-introduced of native Andean agricultural crops contributes to:

• the diversification of food production
• the improvement of local food security
• the prevention of soil erosion
• the empowerment of local communities (especially women)
• generating additional incomes.

Nueva Vida obtained support from USAID for their jam production. In addition Kraft Foods directed a field mission with the aim of securing rigorous hygiene and good manufacturing standards, and new processes and products relating to chocolate-making. University experts are now assisting the initiative with licensing for marketing.

See also in the SEED 2010 Annual report.