Women play an important role in peace efforts in rural Colombia.

That's why we gathered over 100 of them to discuss and share experiences about sustainable development, forest protection, peace processes and other challenges.

The gathering took place in southern Colombia, specifically in Florencia, Caquetá – one of the most conflict-torn regions in the country. The women are all active leaders in our peace programs, food security and forest conservation, supported by Norad and the Norwegian Embassy in Colombia.

Common barriers

At the gathering, they had the opportunity to share experiences about common barriers – such as lack of access to agricultural land and resources, education and health services, and gender-based violence.

The women not only work hard at home, but also lead community initiatives and fight for access to resources and to protect their rights. They are both courageous and determined.

Sigrid Nagoda, regional director of Caritas Norway in Latin America

She was present at the gathering, which was organized by Caritas Colombia. Also participating was the Archbishop of Caquetá, Monseñor Omar de Jesús Mejía, and several public institutions.

Together for a sustainable future

At the gathering, the women developed strategies for support and training networks, and for lobbying public institutions with the goal of strengthening them in their work for sustainable rural development in the regions of Caquetá and Huila.