Strong Hands: Women Fighting Poverty with Clay

Project Report – Ceramists of Piruaj Bajo

Over the past six months, the ceramic project of the Indigenous community of Piruaj Bajo has made remarkable progress. Thanks to the support received through GlobalGiving and the constant accompaniment of our organization, the women ceramists have not only strengthened their technical and organizational skills but have also expanded their markets, diversified their production, and begun to envision a more stable future with greater opportunities for their families.

Achievements and progress during this period

One of the most important milestones of this semester was the successful commercialization of ceramic pieces in major Argentine cities such as Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Rosario. This achievement not only increased household income but also brought recognition to the artisanal work of the community and highlighted a cultural tradition deeply rooted in the ancestral practices of Indigenous peoples in northern Santiago del Estero.

In addition to reaching urban markets, the ceramists also opened a new channel of local sales: the production of clay vessels designed for water storage, a highly valuable resource in the region. These vessels not only generate income but also provide a practical solution to neighboring communities that face daily challenges in accessing safe water.

Another fundamental achievement was the access to technical training. During this period, the ceramists participated in workshops where they learned new techniques, models, and designs, broadening the variety of products they can offer. This training enabled them to innovate while maintaining the essence of their cultural identity, balancing tradition with creativity.

A new workshop to keep growing

Until now, the ceramists carried out their work under very precarious conditions: beneath the shade of trees, using a shared table, drying the pieces in the sun, and firing them in a communal kiln. While these conditions reflected their resilience and commitment, they also imposed clear limitations on production capacity, product quality, and safe storage.

Thanks to donor support, we are delighted to announce that construction of the new ceramics workshop in Piruaj Bajo will begin next month. 

• Annual_Report_2025.pdf (PDF)