Ecuador: an action research programme supports indigenous water rights
14 septiembre 2007Ecuador: an action research programme supports indigenous water rights
Inés Chapi is an Ecuadorian Indian woman who was born in Licto, near Riobamba. She has suffered from oppression and discrimination from white and mestizo (mixed Spanish and Indian origins) farmers before becoming a respected irrigation organised and peasant leader. In the Andean region, local and indigenous water rights and rules have been largely neglected for centuries. The indigenous population are fighting not only for their water but also for recognition of their water rules, authority and culture as well.
Licto: a struggle to gain the water rights
The indigenous people and especially the women of Licto secured and strengthened the main canal and constructed secondary and tertiary canals.
