Willian’s story – from coca grower to traditional potter – showcases USAID’s holistic approach to economic growth. The United States supports SDG 8 through technical assistance projects, worker-centered trade policies, and direct engagement with countries to support fundamental labor rights.
Dave Cooper for USAID
Promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all
When Willian was 10, he started growing coca. Many in Chazuta, his village located in the Peruvian Amazon, did the same. In the 1980s and 1990s drug trafficking took hold of the village as it was losing many of its traditions, including pottery making.
In 2004, the Government of Peru put together a plan to reduce illegal coca cultivation. This helped former coca farmers find legitimate work, and many started growing cacao and coffee, and opening pottery businesses. Together, the Government of Peru, USAID, and the Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, reduced coca cultivation by 83% in San Martin, Ucayali, and Pasco.
Willian followed his passion for ceramics but struggled when he first started his pottery business. In 2013, he participated in a USAID training on digital and financial literacy. A USAID-funded telecenter offered courses for artisans, entrepreneurs, and farmers throughout Chazuta, expanding opportunities and strengthening the village's economy.
Since 2002, USAID has provided job opportunities to 80,000 families, helping former coca farmers find legitimate work and connecting them with producer associations. Today, Willian is most proud of becoming an art teacher. "I never went to college but I am recognized in my community for my art and for the work I do with children."
"Now it's very different for children who are 10 years old," he says. "Now they can focus on studies. We have to take care of our children. We have to give them opportunities to prosper."