Celebrating the International Day of Indigenous Peoples
The International Day of Indigenous Peoples on August 9th, globally honours and celebrates our Indigenous people.
This day serves as a crucial reminder of the cultural diversity, rich heritage and importance of Indigenous communities across the world.
This day has significant meaning for us at Ritual Cacao. Our ceremonial-grade cacao comes straight from the Amazon rainforest, and we collaborate with, and support, both the Asháninka Tribe and the Tsatsayaku Association to protect their land, maintain their traditional agricultural practices, and preserve their traditional ways of life.
The True Cost of Fair Trade
Our respect for our indigenous suppliers and our commitment to fair practices extends beyond merely sourcing premium ceremonial-grade cacao. It involves building meaningful connections with the Indigenous communities we source from.
By giving them a fair price for their cacao, we empower them to become economically independent while safeguarding their ancestral lands. It stops them from trading in illegal logging and the cocaine industry, and preserves the rainforest and wildlife that thrive there.
The Asháninka Tribe - Guardians of the Rainforest
Hailing from the rainforests of the lower Amazon basin in Peru, the Asháninka Tribe has a long history of fierce independence. Amidst the pressures of modernisation and external influences, the tribe strives to preserve its cultural and environmental heritage.
Their subsistence lifestyle aligns harmoniously with the forest they call home. However, they face threats from illegal logging, palm oil production, and coca cultivation for cocaine production.
Cacao plays a vital role in the Asháninka Tribe's life, and operating as a co-operative aligns perfectly with their communal living approach. This co-operative setup not only ensures the protection of their land but also promotes organic and traditional farming methods. By cultivating cacao as a cash crop, the tribe can sustain their economic independence and sovereignty, preserving their unique way of life.
The Tsatsayaku Association - Ancestral Cacao Preservation
Our Tsatsayaku Cacao originates directly from Ecuador, cultivated by the Tsatsayaku Association. This association comprises 140 Kichwa and Mestizo families from 13 different communities, united by a common mission: to produce and conserve ancestral cacao (Arriba Nacional/Fino de Aroma) while ensuring a fair price for all its members.
The Tsatsayaku Association follows the traditional Kichwa farming method 'Chakra,' characterized by a conscientious respect for the natural environment. Embracing an organic approach, they prioritise the preservation of biodiversity and natural resources, always making a positive impact on their surroundings.
International Day of Indigenous Peoples
As Ritual Cacao commemorates the International Day of Indigenous Peoples, we not only celebrate their cultural richness, but also recognise our collective responsibility to protect their rights, lands, and ancient traditions.
By supporting Ritual Cacao, you are contributing to the preservation of ancient varieties of cacao beans, indigenous knowledge, and protecting the vital rainforest they call home.
With love & gratitude for all that is living and breathing,
The Ritual Cacao Team