In the isolated Ene Basin of the Peruvian Amazon, Kemito Ene brings together indigenous Asháninka people to sustainably produce and export certified organic cacao to Australia and Europe. This successful indigenous social business enterprise is a model for sustainable commodity supply chains worldwide. Kemito Ene advocates for the well-being of its producers based on eight pillars from Asháninka culture, including territorial security, cultural identify, and ability to autonomously subsist through production on their own lands. At the same time, the association navigates the demanding global export market with savvy, connecting its producers directly to international buyers. Between 2015 and 2018, cacao exports increased from 10 to 90 tons, while the number of participating Asháninka families rose from 41 to 300. In an area where forests are threatened by illegal logging, large infrastructure projects, and oil exploitation, Kemito Ene tells a story of indigenous entrepreneurship that sustains families and forests.

Key Facts 

Equator Prize Winner: 2019

Founded: 2010

Location: Satipo, Junin, Peru

Ecosystem: Forests

Case study

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