The Vichada Region is significantly underdeveloped in terms of transport, telecommunications, electricity supply and bulk services. Historically, the area has been used for illicit drug smuggling and as such no formal infrastructure development existed.
Road Networks
FFC is supporting the improvement of the roads in this region. The road network in Colombia is 215,000 km in length of which 23,000 (10,7%) are paved. The road infrastructure in Vichada is poor, with no paved roads in the rural areas. The rivers in the region are also used for the transportation of goods and supplies. Due to the poor transportation infrastructure in the region, the development of agricultural crops, for export purposes, is still severely constrained. To allow the situation to be improved, large quantities of lime are required to ameliorate the soil and will need to be delivered. We have been involved in the improvement of provincial roads in the project area through logistics assistance. The total road kilometres that have been classified so far totals 19.8 kms. The construction of the road has also allowed the community of Vichada improved access to the main roads.
Loading Terminals
FFC is building loading terminals on the Meta river that will facilitate the import of supplies and export of products.
Schools
FFC built a new ablution block at the local school which provided the necessary hygiene and privacy for the children. As a result, the local government is adding classrooms and hostel accommodations.
Communication
FFC has installed Internet links at our diff erent operational centres to provide business communication access. At the same time our employees can remain connected to their family and friends.
As a result of the employment opportunities provided by FFC and most of the community having regular income, a national mobile phone provider has erected a tower in the village providing Colombian based communications. Previously, only Venezuelan communication providers were available.
