The Awa people of Colombia, an Indigenous group residing in the country’s southwestern rainforests, have faced threats from armed groups for decades. Despite the challenges, they remain committed to protecting the environment they consider themselves “connected” to.
As leaders in environmental policy convene for a major biodiversity meeting in Colombia, the Awa community symbolizes the ongoing struggle for survival of native peoples and the preservation of the jungle.
Olivio Bisbicus, a leader within the Awa community of nearly 50,000 individuals, highlighted the group’s long-standing resistance against various threats. He emphasized the complexity and dangers faced by Awa chiefs, attributing these challenges to issues such as drug trafficking and the resulting negative impacts on their culture and natural surroundings.
The Awa people, known as Inkal Awa meaning “People of the jungle” in their ancestral language, inhabit the mountainous rainforest regions of Colombia and Ecuador. The strategic border area they reside in has become a focal point for conflict among armed groups vying for control.
The situation for the Awa community is deemed “critical,” with documented violence against them spanning over two decades. The Colombian justice system has raised concerns about the risk of physical, cultural, and spiritual extermination faced by the Awa people.
Despite the ongoing threats and violence, the Awa community has managed to maintain control over their lands. With a commitment to non-violence and a strong sense of identity and unity, they continue to demand respect for their territory and strive to protect their environment.
The Awa people also emphasize their “spiritual bond” with the land, viewing nature as a living space where they coexist with animals and spirits. This connection to their environment is deeply ingrained in their culture and guides their efforts to safeguard their territory.
Through initiatives like the Nutria private nature reserve, the Awa community aims to promote peace and ecotourism while preserving the biodiversity of their lands. By emphasizing the importance of caring for the earth and recognizing their interdependence with nature, the Awa people seek to ensure a sustainable future for themselves and their environment.