Fuerte Olimpo (Paraguay). As part of the project for the promotion and integral formation of the population, carried out in coordination with Mary Help of Christians Foundation of St. Rafael Archangel Province of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, with the support of the NGO Manos Unidas, and as a process of strengthening small agricultural and zootechnical producers, women artisans and entrepreneurs of the district of Fuerte Olimpo – Chaco Paraguayo, an agreement was signed between “Laura Vicuña” Social Work and the Municipality for the creation of a weekly market in the main square of the city, with a variety of local products.
The agreement bears the signatures of the mayor Moisés Recalde, of the coordinator of the Social Work, Sr. Blanca Selva Ruiz Diaz Gamba, FMA, of the presidents of the associations of artisans, producers and entrepreneurs of the city of Fuerte Olimpo. The inauguration of the weekly market took place on 21 June 2023 in the presence of authorities, schools, and representatives of various institutions.
“Laura Vicuña” Social Work of the FMA is located in the north of the Paraguayan Chaco, a mission land, among the indigenous people and the poorest families of these isolated lands. The mission of the FMA of the Social Work is characterized by an integral evangelizing presence in three indigenous communities made up of the Chamacocos and Tomarajhos ethnic groups. Each ethnic group, of which the latter is a minority, is found on the banks of the great Paraguay River.
In addition to working in the indigenous communities, the FMA are also present among the vulnerable families of two neighborhoods of the city of Fuerte Olimpo: San Miguel and Don Bosco.
For better coordination, three indigenous associations and two non-indigenous associations were created, which include farmers on farms and orchards; three associations of artisans and entrepreneurs have also been set up, which receive formation and technical assistance, and also participate in catechesis, the youth center oratory, etc.
This agreement, made with local institutions and shared with the local community, is a source of great joy for the St. Gabriel Archangel Province, as it marks a significant step in its commitment to promoting women and indigenous peoples.
