From mastering construction techniques to challenging gender roles, Colombian women are paving the way for better access to education for their children and future generations.
In many of Colombia’s rural communities, women are leading by example and shaping the future of their communities as part of Peace Accord implementation. Colombia’s 2016 Peace Accord is one of the world’s most comprehensive and requires wide-ranging reforms related to rural development, inclusive political participation, transitional justice, and the reduction of illicit economies. OTI works to demonstrate the transformative power of the peace accord by strengthening leadership and collaboration between the Colombian government and strategic regional partners - including women’s organizations - to accelerate peace accord implementation. By working with community leaders, OTI is supporting women in shaping the future of their communities as part of accord implementation.
In Imbilí, a village in Tumaco on Colombia’s southwestern Pacific coast, women have historically been excluded from community infrastructure projects that underpin Peace Accord implementation. Now, with support from OTI’s Colombia Transforma program in the form of in-kind materials and training, women in the community are taking big steps to transform their village.
The women started by building over a mile of pedestrian pathways between two communities, which greatly improved security and transit for families, especially during the rainy season when the routes can become impassable due to the mud. When Doña Juana was young, she would often have to leave her house without shoes and trek to school in knee-deep mud. Now, future generations will walk an easier path to access education.
“This is more than just construction; it's about building peace and fostering coexistence within our community.” — Doña Juana, a resident of Imbilí for more than 45 years
The women of Imbilí had never worked on a construction project before. But the motivation to build community infrastructure that would improve local childrens’ access to school propelled them to engage in this important work for the first time, demonstrating their organization and commitment to community improvement.
To build on these efforts, the women of Imbilí established an association and secured access to training by the Foundation for Peace and Reconciliation. The project has also provided an opportunity to unite the community and reconsider the roles traditionally fulfilled by women. "The men's perspective is different now; there is much more unity among everyone, men and women, and also between the young and the elders,” commended one male local leader.
Meanwhile, in the El Catatumbo region of Norte de Santander, Yamile Vega is also demonstrating how collaboration between the community and government can improve welfare and drive change. For the last 12 years, Yamile has played a pivotal role in her community by implementing various public improvement projects that strengthen collaboration between the community and local government. Yamile has partnered with and secured resources from various organizations over the years, including the municipal government and OTI’s Colombia Transforma Program.
Yamile continues to share her knowledge with other local leaders, many of whom are following her example by managing projects that improve the living conditions of their communities.
"Yamile's work reflects her dedication, empathy, and ability to drive change, making her a fundamental pillar in community development. Her leadership is a model to follow and a driving force for progress." — A local Community Action Board President
Together, women like Doña Juana, Yamile, and countless others are improving their communities, advancing peacebuilding, and forging a more secure future for Colombia through their resilience and determination.
OTI Grantee