Fi Wi Riif: Fishing for Knowledge for a Sustainable Future

The Fi Wi Riif project, funded by Fondo Acción, was created with the aim of strengthening artisanal fishing in Providencia and Santa Catalina through knowledge and community participation. Its main objective is to gather key information about the reality of local fishermen, their challenges and their needs, in order to design strategies that improve their quality of life and promote the sustainability of marine resources.

To achieve this, we have conducted surveys and held direct dialogues with fishermen in the community. Through these meetings, we have obtained essential data on fishing practices, the challenges they face on a daily basis, and opportunities for more sustainable management of marine ecosystems.

The results of these surveys will serve as a basis for future conservation and economic development initiatives, ensuring that artisanal fishing remains a fundamental pillar of the Raizal community's identity and livelihood. With Fi Wi Riif, we work together to ensure a balance between fishing tradition and ocean preservation.

Participatory restoration of forested areas of "The Peak"

The Peak, the highest point in Providencia, is a symbol of natural beauty and a crucial ecosystem at risk. The Participatory Forest Restoration project at The Peak, supported by Fondo Acción, seeks to restore and protect this area affected by deforestation. Through agreements with local farmers, we have involved the community in the recovery of areas such as Bottom House and South West Bay. Constant monitoring allows us to evaluate progress and adjust restoration strategies. This project has an environmental and social impact, strengthening food and environmental sustainability in Providencia.

Climate Justice - Climate Literacy Model

Early environmental education is key to a sustainable future. The "Climate Literacy" project in Bomboná and Boyacá, funded by Fondo Acción, has created an environmental classroom to teach children and young people to care for their surroundings. This space raises awareness about the importance of protecting the environment through activities such as the school garden, where they learn about food security. Educational material on climate change mitigation and adaptation has also been developed. The project seeks to empower the new generations of Providencia to be guardians of their home and cultivate a love for nature.

Climate Justice - Food Security,

access to water

Given the vulnerability of the islands and the seasonality of water sources in San Andrés, the project focused on sustainable solutions to drought. Rainwater harvesting and storage systems were implemented, as well as locally adapted water management techniques. As a result, communities now have access to reliable water for domestic and agricultural use, improving food security, health and family resilience, which has significantly increased their quality of life.

Conservation of biological diversity

The parrotfish is a vital species for the archipelago's coral reefs. The project seeks to improve its conservation status by raising awareness and supporting artisanal fishermen, restaurants and local communities. Sustainable fishing practices and the adoption of alternative menus are promoted to protect this species, involving relevant sectors. The parrotfish is important because it contributes to the formation of coral sand beaches, keeps algae that could suffocate corals under control, and is attractive for its striking colours.

Climate Justice - Disaster Prevention

climate change

In Providencia and Santa Catalina, a community emergency plan has been created for hurricane prevention and response. The plan includes an emergency committee and a bilingual guide for the population. Climate change is a priority for many governments and organizations. Since 1900, 11 of the 20 most devastating hurricanes occurred in the first two decades of the 21st century. Although our islands have been less affected than other regions of the Caribbean, we have faced hurricanes that impact our communities more frequently. Examples include Hattie (1961), Joan (1988), and Julia (2022). This plan seeks to strengthen local resilience and preparedness for these phenomena.

Human rights, humanitarian responsibility, and sustainable development

The project is aimed at supporting the strengthening of Raizal families in the departments of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina. Through productive and sociocultural initiatives, the Raizal community is expected to recover its ancestral practices, promoting its social and cultural autonomy. Priority is given to the artisanal manufacture of traditional Raizal elements, as a symbol of their identity, and the organization of cultural activities that not only contribute to improving their sources of income, but also serve to preserve and disseminate the most significant cultural expressions of the Raizal community.