Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. – The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) announced that the Campo Conecta program, designed to eliminate middlemen and directly connect Dominican farmers with the country’s hotel and restaurant industry, will receive international recognition this year.
According to Rodrigo Castañeda, FAO representative in the Dominican Republic, the initiative has been selected to be showcased during the FAO’s annual global event in Rome this October, where outstanding projects from around the world are honored for their contribution to poverty reduction and food security.
“Campo Conecta is among nearly 20 initiatives worldwide chosen to be presented this year as an example of a successful model that can be replicated in other countries,” Castañeda explained.
What is Campo Conecta?
Launched in 2020, Campo Conecta is a joint effort developed by FAO, the Dominican Republic Hotels and Tourism Association (Asonahores), and the Supérate program. Its main goal is to strengthen the local economy by linking farmers directly to the tourism supply chain.
The project is built around the so-called “Casas Sombra” (Shade Houses) — designated farming areas where products such as basil, broccoli, lettuce, carrots, potatoes, eggplant, onions, parsley, and zucchini are grown.
So far, Campo Conecta works with 360 to 370 farmers nationwide, indirectly benefiting nearly 1,000 families. Currently, there are 36 Casas Sombra in operation, with additional facilities under construction in provinces such as La Altagracia, San Pedro de Macorís, Valverde, and Monte Cristi.
Participants are carefully selected through the Government’s Single Beneficiary System (Siuben), prioritizing families from the most vulnerable and impoverished communities.
International Spotlight
As part of its recognition, a group of Dominican farmers involved in the program will travel to Rome to share their personal stories and explain how Campo Conecta has improved their livelihoods.
Castañeda highlighted that beyond improving market access, the initiative guarantees income stability for farmers while promoting national food security.
“Campo Conecta connects production with demand in a sustainable way. It doesn’t only generate income for farmers, it also fosters food system resilience,” said the FAO representative.
With this recognition, the Dominican Republic joins the ranks of innovative projects showcased on a global stage, strengthening its position as a leader in sustainable agriculture and tourism integration.
