EQUAL PARTICIPATION FOR WATER CONSERVATION IN PERU

Women take a leading role in reforestation

The Northern Andes Water Fund project is moving towards gender equity! Women have taken a leading role working in ancestral reforestation “mingas” or collaborative work projects, and forest nurseries which are a major part of improving access to clean water in the region. One of the women involved is Esmilda Huamán. She has played a decisive role in water conservation and contributed to the implementation of the Northern Andes Water Fund in Piura, Peru. This water fund contributes an average of 1,162 gallons of water per second to the flow of the Quiroz River. “We look out for the well-being of the entire community and the recovery of water-producing areas, which is why we are always planting native trees. No one cuts down a tree without our permission,” she claims.

Women in the community have also gotten involved in sustainable livelihood projects such as coffee and dairy production and even natural essences derived from forest plants and remedies with medicinal plants.

Women like Esmilda have inspired men in the communities to recognize how important women’s participation is. “Women have great skills. Their participation in conservation activities and economic activities is essential,” said Berardo Neira Meléndrez, president of the Paramo territorial platform. “We are aware that they have the same rights, so we complement each other,” he continues.

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