Protection of water sources in the Wiwa communities of the Badillo River Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia

The project led by Tchendukua – Ici et ailleurs proposes the implementation of an ancestral management plan for the protection and restoration of water sources in ten Wiwa communities located in the Badillo River basin in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia.

The action plan comprises four components:

• cultural strengthening,
• water education,
• protection of springs and forests,
• improved management of livestock and natural resources.

The first two components are aimed at all ten Wiwa communities along the Badillo River. The latter two will be developed specifically with the community of Tezhumake.

This project is part of ongoing efforts to support the recovery of ancestral lands by the indigenous peoples of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. It is based on a participatory approach, the will of the communities, and collaboration with traditional Wiwa authorities and political authorities.