The Interfaith Initiative for Tropical Forests joined in the commemoration of the twenty-fifth anniversary of the La Perla Amazónica Peasant Reserve Zone (ZRCPA), held on October 24 and 25 in the village of Bajo Cuembí, in Puerto Asís.
The reserve was created in 2000 by 800 families who were victims of the armed conflict, with the aim of defending their rights as farmers and restoring the territory.
Over the past 25 years, La Perla Amazónica has stood out for its contribution to the protection of the Amazonian ecosystem, thanks to a management model that reconciles environmental conservation with the sustainable development of local communities. This model has made it possible to preserve biodiversity, promote territorial peace, and strengthen the rights of farmers in the face of various social and economic challenges.
“La Perla Amazónica has shown that caring for the land, protecting water, and defending the dignity of communities are deeply spiritual acts that reveal the strength of a people who have decided to stay, plant seeds, and dream in their territory,” said Blanca Lucía Echeverry, who recognized the leadership of Jani Rita Silva, legal representative of the Asociación de Desarrollo Integral y Sostenible Perla Amazónica (ADISPA), an organization that represents and administers the peasant reserve. In addition, the director of IRI-Colombia referred to the work of the Initiative in favor of environmental protection in the municipality, through the local chapters IRI-Puerto Asís, IRI-Piñuña Blanco, and IRI-El Águila.
The celebration was attended by representatives of the Ombudsman’s Office, the German Embassy, the Irish Embassy, and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. Guests had the opportunity to enjoy a sample of local cuisine and handicrafts. They also enjoyed performances by the dance group and youth choir, as well as sports events and a large peasant bingo game.
“We are farmers who have resisted and remain standing. From our Peasant Reserve Zone, we fight for the sovereignty and development of our communities, defending life, territory, and biodiversity. We continue to walk together, with our sights set on a dignified future for ourselves and future generations,” said environmental defender and Reserve leader Jani Rita Silva.
