In Wayuunaiki, the language of the Wayuu people, there is no specific word for “climate change.” This fact reflects the reality of a community that has faced a desert-like and hostile environment for generations. The struggle of the Wayuu against the adverse climate has become a perpetual battle, where a humble bean stands as a symbol of resilience and strength in the face of adversity.
The Wayuu reside in La Guajira, an arid region that stretches across the northern tip of South America, between Colombia and Venezuela. This habitat, marked by scorching sun and little rainfall, presents great challenges for agriculture. In this context, the kapeshuna bean, also known as the Guajiro bean, has become a vital resource. This bean not only sustains the community of over 600,000 Wayuu, but it also represents an intrinsic connection to their ancestors and a vital part of their cultural identity.
“The little Guajiro bean is very important to us because it grows fast: in 45-50 days we can already harvest it. It also withstands a lot of heat and dry conditions,” comments Manuel Montiel, a member of the Ipasharrain community. This crop provides a food supply even during periods of drought. As Manuel walks through his field, he explains how the colors in the pods indicate maturity. “Each color tells us about the maturity of the bean,” he says as he prepares a harvest for a community feast.
The resilience of the Wayuu has been challenged by the extreme climatic conditions of recent decades, with El Niño events altering rainfall patterns and causing severe droughts. Between 2012 and 2016, La Guajira suffered a devastating drought that affected over 900,000 people, where food shortages and malnutrition became everyday problems. However, their relationship with the Guajiro bean has allowed them to maintain a level of sustenance even in difficult times.
Recently, the Ipasharrain community has managed to move forward thanks to an initiative by the FAO aimed at addressing these challenges. Restoring an irrigation system has allowed them to cultivate food on half a hectare of land, strengthening their ability to face periods of drought. “Before, we were at the mercy of a sky that could remain dry for months. Now, we have a thriving community field,” says Manuel, highlighting the transformation they have experienced.
The SCALA program, promoted by the FAO, seeks to merge the traditional knowledge of the Wayuu with innovative agricultural practices. Currently, techniques are being applied that optimize water management and improve soil quality, ensuring sustainable food production. This approach not only respects local traditions, but also incorporates new crops to diversify the diet and improve food security.
Wayuu women, like Ana Griselda González, play a fundamental role in this transformation. They are responsible for selecting and preserving the seeds of the Guajiro bean, ensuring the continuity of this essential crop. “Years ago, we would save seeds with hope, but climate change has robbed us of rain and the possibility of planting,” expresses Sandra Medina, a leader of another Wayuu community who also works with the FAO.
Today, thanks to the support of programs like SCALA, communities are rediscovering the importance of local resources and reaffirming their connection to the land. Diversified agriculture is beginning to thrive, providing not only food but also a renewed sense of hope. As the Guajiro beans prosper in the crops, a future is envisioned where the community not only preserves its cultural identity, but also bravely faces the challenges of climate change.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
