III.V.I Value chains improvement

Non-timber forest products (NTFP), like frankincense resin or honey, are one of the most important sources of income for local communities. But the value chains with these NTFP are poorly developed. The people are selling raw resin for low prices. The project supports advanced processing of resin by hydro-distillation to get pure essential oil. By product of hydro-distillation is frankincense hydrosol, excellent cosmetic product. Essential oil is possible to sell for much bigger money comparing the raw resin or use for other products with added value like soap, aromatic sticks, bath salt, etc. We established cooperative, trained the staff in production of these products that are sold to tourist visiting the island. Cooperative shares the income among local communities collecting resin according to the fair rules set up by all stakeholder (collectors, producers and sellers). Local communities managing community forests have been receiving higher benefits.  They are more aware of the value of the forest and are more motivated to take care of the trees to ensure a permanent income using knowledge obtained in trainings organized by project.