Non-reimbursable funds for tourism development in La Paz

(La Paz, March 17, 2010).- CAF approved a non-reimbursable technical cooperation grant in favor of the Foundation for the La Paz-Beni Tourism Destination Management Organization (OGD La Paz-Beni), whose objective is to integrate promotion of Lake Titicaca and Tiwanaku in La Paz department in an effort to promote economic development, improve the standard of living of the families of five communities adjacent to the lake, reduce poverty levels in the area, and mitigate problems of migration.

The objective of the project is to create a tourism destination which is self managed by the local communities of Pata Patani, Quehuaya, Tiraska, Pariti, and Chiripa and which generates income and sustainable jobs for the almost 200 families involved, at the same time as guaranteeing visitor satisfaction, respect for the environment and stimulating best practice in the provision of tourism services.

"Sustainable and productive development of tourism activity depends not only on attractive tourism destinations but also on a set of requirements such as good infrastructure and trained human resources," CAF director representatives in Bolivia Emilio Uquillas said.

The CAF executive said the funds would help create sustainable employment and improve the income of the inhabitants of the five communities, as well as reviving handicraft production.

The project integrates two leading attractions of La Paz department: the region of “little” Lake Titicaca (the highest navigable lake in the world) and the Tiwanaku archaeological site. The plan is to unite the two destinations and generate employment and economic activity which will benefit 1,200 people.

CAF will contribute 37% of the total cost of the project for the first phase "mysteries of Titicaca" which consists of a tourism circuit where visitors will get to know the origin of the Andean people and their communion with the environment. The CAF contribution will be supplemented by funds from OGD La Paz-Beni.

The CAF funds will be used to contract specialized consultants who will train members of the communities to manage the activities of guides, restaurants, lodging and crafts.

Although tourism’s share of Bolivian GDP is not yet significant, only 2.2% according to the CAF analysis, the sector has interesting comparative advantages.