Technical Assistance Boosts Artisan Cheese Production in Alexânia

In Alexânia, a rural area approximately 90 kilometers from Brasília, the production of artisan cheese has become a central aspect of local farming life. The transformation began on the property of Gervaso da Silva Oliveira and Maria Antônia, who transitioned from cattle farming to cheese production with technical guidance.

The change was facilitated by the Assistência Técnica e Gerencial (ATeG) program of Senar, which provided continuous technical support during the pandemic. Allan Passos, a field technician, identified areas for improvement, leading to an increase in daily cheese production from 25 to 70 kilograms.

Significant upgrades were made to the property's infrastructure, including the acquisition of a milk cooler and a heating tank, enhancing the productivity and organization of the cheese-making process. These changes brought about improvements not only in production but also in the family's daily life.

The ATeG program's role extended beyond technical guidance, focusing on the overall structure and management of the rural enterprise. Luciana Valadão, the program coordinator in Goiás, highlighted the evolution of the producers under their supervision.

The increase in cheese production has provided the family with greater financial stability, allowing for home improvements and better access to educational resources for their children. The newly installed internet on the farm has facilitated their children's studies, reducing the need for travel to access these resources.

The success story of the Alexânia family illustrates the impact of technical assistance on rural production but also emphasizes the unique conditions required for similar success, such as the availability of resources and effective management.