When the project was initiated in 2002 the community of San José de Payamino had problems finding enough funding to pay for school books, buying clothes, food, gasoline and other things from the town to which they had become accustomed. This led to more hunting and selling to the bush meat markets in Coca and Loreto. They had been selling a few trees to timber companies to pay for wedding dowries as well. Gold companies had tried to get into the territory and were in operation in the Sumaco area up to 10 years ago. Oil companies are also very eager to work in this area, you can read all about the threats to the Payamino area by clicking here or on the link right.

The Payamino Project is committed to helping the community manage their own future. Our development work is focussed on what the community want. We help with funding education and health work, providing resources and expertise, as well as teaching and training on the ground.

The Project management group meet once a year to discuss the issues facing the Payamino and to plan for the year ahead. We are always delighted to hear from anybody interested in helping the project or visiting the Payamino community. You can find out more by clicking here.