Guardians of Boca Pariamanu: RFUK’s new map story highlights Indigenous resilience in the face of adversity

17 janvier 2025

We are excited to announce the publication of our latest map story, Guardians of Boca Pariamanu, which beautifully encapsulates the journey of Indigenous women leaders in Peru’s Madre de Dios region as they navigate the threats to their ancestral lands and livelihoods. This engaging narrative, rich with photos, maps and an accompanying video, focuses on a community's ongoing struggle to protect their environment while embracing sustainable economic opportunities.

Nestled along the banks of the Madre de Dios River, Boca Pariamanu is home to resilient community members like Marta, who actively monitor their forests and advocate for their rights. As treasurer of Boca Pariamanu, Marta exemplifies the commitment of her community to safeguard their land through innovative tools, such as ForestLink, which allows forest monitors to document illegal activities in real-time.

The map story will transport you on a journey that begins with a twenty-minute boat ride through the vibrant waterways of the region, highlighting the efforts of FENAMAD, the Indigenous rights organisation, in amplifying the voices of local communities. It delves into the daily lives of the residents, underlining their sustainable agricultural practices, including the cultivation of cacao alongside traditional chestnut trees and plans for ecotourism.

Examining the young cacao plants.
Examining the young cacao plants.

However, the serenity of life in Boca Pariamanu is overshadowed by persistent threats, including illegal mining and encroachment on their lands. Yet hope thrives amidst these challenges. Through a strategic partnership with RFUK, FENAMAD is harnessing technology to turn community testimonies into legal action, with several successful cases already brought against illegal loggers and miners. This vital framework aims to secure justice and deter future violations, empowering the guardians of Boca Pariamanu to continue their essential work.

The map story not only documents the struggles and victories of the Boca Pariamanu community but also emphasises the courage of those who risk their lives as environmental human rights defenders. Tragically, over 30 Indigenous leaders in Peru have lost their lives in this fight since 2013, highlighting the urgent need for support and recognition of their vital work.

Guardians of Boca Pariamanu serves as a testament to the resilience of Indigenous communities and the power of collective action in the face of adversity. By blending traditional knowledge with modern technology, these leaders are crafting a sustainable future for their children, where cultural heritage and economic independence coexist.

To view the map story and learn more about the inspiring efforts of Boca Pariamanu, cliquez ici. Join us in recognising the guardians of the Amazon and advocating for the rights of Indigenous communities worldwide.

Pour plus d'informations sur le travail du RFUK au Pérou, veuillez cliquer sur ici or contact our Peru Coordinator, Daniela Velit.

Areas of Boca Pariamanu undergoing recovery and reforestation.
Areas of Boca Pariamanu undergoing recovery and reforestation.

RFUK's work in the Madre de Dios region is, in part, made possible thanks to the generous funding from the Taille du Pays de Galles.

Partagez ceci :

Fondation pour la forêt tropicale Suivre 4,687 9,646

Justice climatique pour les communautés forestières. Sécuriser les terres, soutenir les vies.

RFUK
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