Yurumanguí: the community restoring its livelihoods with resilience and hope

To reach Yurumanguí, a large community nestled in the heart of Colombia’s Pacific region, one must undertake a three-hour river journey from the urban center of Buenaventura. In this area, where the river serves as a lifeline, the natural beauty contrasts starkly with the harsh reality of a territory scarred by years of armed conflict.

Yurumanguí is home to over 5,000 people spread across 13 villages. For decades, the community has struggled to preserve its identity and rebuild its livelihoods in the face of violence, limited access to public services, healthcare, education, and employment or subsistence opportunities.

Between 2001 and 2005, Yurumanguí endured one of the darkest periods in its recent history. The armed conflict severely impacted this Afro-descendant community, as clashes between illegal armed groups and mass displacements to Buenaventura became a daily reality.

The 2001 massacre in the village of El Firme left a lasting scar on the community’s collective memory: seven people were killed, a woman was sexually assaulted, and the entire population was displaced. The forced displacement of more than 3,000 people shattered not only the local economy but also the cultural practices that had long defined Yurumanguí, such as artisanal fishing and hunting. The constant fear of crossfire or never returning home led many to abandon their traditional ways of life.

The defense of the territory: a milestone of struggle

Despite these challenges, the Yurumanguí community refused to give up. The 1991 Constitution paved the way for Afro-descendant communities in Colombia, granting them the right to collective land ownership. Under Law 70 of 1993, the Yurumanguí River Community Council (CCRY) obtained collective title to 54,776 hectares of land in 2000, although they faced legal obstacles due to overlapping claims from private interests.

After a lengthy legal battle, in 2017 the community won a court ruling in their favor, restoring their territory and nullifying third-party property rights over the land. This victory not only returned their land but also renewed their hope of rebuilding their livelihoods and economy in a territory that has always been central to their identity.

Heartland Alliance International has made significant strides in creating a safer and more sustainable future for this community. Through comprehensive support has collaborated with local organizations and residents to strengthen emergency response capacity, restore livelihoods, and foster social cohesion. These efforts have been crucial in improving the quality of life for a population deeply affected by conflict.

Firm Barranco Fishermen and Piangueras Association

Livelihood recovery has been another key pillar of the project. We have worked closely with the Asociación Firme Barranco de Pescadores y Piangueras del Río Yurumanguí, a group of 62 members, to strengthen its organizational and economic capacity. Through workshops and technical assistance, the association has improved in critical areas such as cooperatives, budget management, business plan development, and project formulation, ensuring they can sustainably manage their own economy. Additionally, a portfolio of services was created, along with promotional materials, which has helped the association better position itself in the market and attract new clients for their handcrafted products.

Pianguar refers to the traditional harvesting of mollusks in the Pacific Ocean’s mangroves, a task primarily undertaken by women called piangueras, who have received psychoeducation, menstrual health and self-care training, as well as psychological first aid, both individually and collectively. This has improved their overall well-being and productive capacity.

Preparedness and risk mitigation: a community plan for the future

One of the most significant achievements was the development and systematization of a Community Plan for Armed Conflict Risk Mitigation and Preparedness. This process, which involved numerous community co-construction meetings, enabled the identification of specific risks faced by Yurumanguí, stemming from both the armed conflict and natural disasters.

Based on a thorough assessment, clear and practical measures were designed to help the community respond effectively to emergency situations. Training was also provided in physical and psychological first aid, international humanitarian law, and mine risk education (MRE), ensuring that community members are better equipped to handle potential emergencies.

This initiative was complemented by the distribution of essential supplies, such as fences displaying international humanitarian law principles and first aid kits, which are now part of the community’s emergency equipment.

“Green Planet” initiative Children and adolescents were a priority

The ‘Green Planet’ youth initiative was strengthened through training focused on the protection of children and adolescents, equipping young people with the tools to become agents of change in their community. Fathers, mothers, and caregivers were also involved, fostering a protective environment that directly benefits future generations. Planeta Verde has made a significant impact by empowering youth to lead activities related to environmental protection and community well-being.

This initiative has been essential in fostering a sense of belonging and social responsibility among Yurumanguí’s adolescents, who now have more resources to protect and enhance their environment.

Transparency and community participation: an advisory council

Finally, a Community Advisory and Accountability Council (CAAC) was established, playing a key role in enhancing transparency and community participation. This council has served as a bridge between the organization and the community, allowing members to actively participate in decision-making and monitor the initiatives implemented in their territory. This new structure promotes accountability and builds trust between community leaders and the residents of Yurumanguí, ensuring that the actions taken address the community’s real needs.

The comprehensive support provided has had a profound impact on the community’s ability to face present challenges and build a more resilient future. Through risk preparedness, livelihood recovery, youth empowerment, and the promotion of transparency, Yurumanguí is now better equipped to overcome the difficulties it has long endured. The success of this project demonstrates that, with the right support and a community-centered approach, it is possible to transform lives, restore hope, and create new opportunities for future generations—preserving their culture and strengthening their economy through initiatives like artisanal fishing.