On November 6, 2024, in San Juan de Pasto, the Exchange of Experiences and Best Practices in Disaster Risk Management was held as part of the BRACE project (Building Adaptation Capacity for Extreme Climate Events in Colombia through Community Empowerment), supported by the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) of the Embassy of Canada in Colombia. This event, aimed at strengthening local capacities to address the challenges of climate change, gathered more than 40 participants, including representatives from local communities, government institutions, and social organizations from the municipalities of Cumbal, Ricaurte, La Cruz, and San Pablo.
A Space for Dialogue and Learning
The event addressed the realities of the municipalities of Cumbal, La Cruz, Ricaurte, and San Pablo, territories characterized by vulnerabilities to phenomena such as floods, landslides, and droughts. Using a participatory methodology that included an expert panel, group workshops, and a plenary session, participants shared experiences, identified challenges, and co-created proposals adapted to their contexts.
During the discussions, institutions such as CORPONARIÑO and the Secretariat for Environment and Sustainable Development of Nariño presented key initiatives, including reforestation projects, páramo conservation programs, and early warning systems. The Volunteer Fire Department of Pasto and the Civil Defense highlighted their efforts in prevention, emergency response, and community strengthening.
Key Results and Learnings
Among the most significant achievements of the exchange were: i) Identified Best Practices: In Cumbal, programs have been implemented to reforest with native species and strengthen indigenous environmental guards. In Ricaurte, community early warning systems have been developed, combining accessible technology with local knowledge. In San Pablo, school-based risk management plans have been promoted, integrating environmental education with emergency preparedness. In La Cruz, the purchase of land for the conservation of water sources and strategic ecosystems stands out.
ii) Strengthened Interinstitutional and Community Collaboration: Participants emphasized the need to align efforts among local governments, social organizations, and communities to maximize resources and address climate challenges effectively.
iii) Joint Commitments: Participants agreed to prioritize actions such as environmental education, the implementation of early warning systems, and the promotion of sustainable practices in agriculture and waste management.
iv) A Guide for Territorial Resilience: A final report documenting key learnings and proposals was developed, serving as a tool for planning future actions in the region.
A Step Toward Sustainability
The event underscored the importance of integrating ancestral knowledge with modern tools to design effective strategies to combat climate change. Additionally, it consolidated a network of local stakeholders committed to building safer and more sustainable territories.
The Development and Peace Foundation (FUNDEPAZ) extends its gratitude to the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives and reaffirms its commitment to promoting spaces for dialogue and learning that strengthen resilience and improve the well-being of communities in Nariño.
Together, we build capacities for a more resilient future.
