Colombia: women, food sovereignty and biodiversity, a job beyond agriculture that keeps traditions alive and the sustainable relationship with the land

ROMA – On the occasion of Conference of the Parties (COP16, until 1 November) on biodiversity taking place in Cali, Colombia, a meeting was held that highlighted the fundamental role of women for food sovereignty and the protection of biodiversity. The event brought together representatives of associations and bodies that collaborate with the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) in Cuba and Colombia in the framework of projects promoted by the Italian cooperation system in both countries.

The women of Cuba and Colombia. Organized by Rural Development Program with a Territorial Approach (DRET II) of the European Union in Colombia, AICS Bogota – headquarters South America, the FAO and National Natural Parks of Colombiawith the collaboration of AICS Havana, the exchange featured women from Colombia and Cuba who shared their experiences in the fight for a more sustainable future. Among the speakers, Francisca Santos, leader and master ceramist of the Ticuna community of San Martin de Amacayacu; Mayra Alejandra Quintero, Wayuu leader and representative of ASODEPAG; and Idalmis Acosta Morejón, director of development of the Institute of Agroforestry Research (INAF), national counterpart of AICS Havana.

The stories shared. The stories shared at the meeting reflect the transformative impact women have on agriculture and environmental conservation. From indigenous Colombians who conserve native seeds and promote organic farming practices, to Cuban women who have implemented agroecological methods to strengthen their communities, each story is a testament to female commitment and innovation.

The protection of local ecosystems. In Colombia, women are leaders of initiatives that not only feed their families but also contribute to the protection of local ecosystems. Their work goes beyond agriculture; it is an effort to keep ancestral traditions alive and promote a sustainable relationship with the land.

Knowledge is essential. “I was born in the countryside and from an early age I learned to value the land, a commitment that I carry in my heart – says Mayra Quintero, Wayuu leader – we Wayuu women play a fundamental role in building peace with nature. We are custodians of our traditions and have the responsibility to pass on ancestral knowledge and care for the environment to our children. In this way, we ensure that our culture endures”,

Strengthen gender strategies. In Cuba, cooperation projects have strengthened gender strategies in rural areas, promoted by various Cuban institutions. These initiatives aim to empower women, recognizing their essential role in the country’s sustainable development and food security.

Food sovereignty is not just an individual right. The meeting ended with a clear message: food sovereignty is not just an individual right, but a responsibility shared between all actors. “Climate change – said Francisca, an indigenous Ticuna – is a reality that is transforming our planet, and what is about to come will be even worse. Therefore I say to the rich people of the world: it is essential that they start sowing plants and taking care of of our environment. As women, we teach our children the importance of protecting the rivers and the earth, because we all depend on it. Without mother earth, we cannot be happy.”