As Ecuador's political landscape evolves, critical issues are emerging that will shape the nation’s future and its communities. The recent presidential elections, held on February 9, were marked by various crises—political, economic, security, and social. As Ecuadorians prepare for a runoff election on April 13, the precarious state of the Ecuadorian Amazon resonates deeply within the hearts and minds of its citizens.

Ecuador, celebrated for its rich cultures and breathtaking landscapes, stands at a pivotal crossroads. Both President Daniel Noboa and opposition candidate Luisa González have expressed support for the continuation of extractivism and oil drilling, a choice that threatens the delicate balance of the Amazon’s biodiversity and undermines the rights of Indigenous peoples who have long protected these lands.

In the face of these challenges, women are rising as powerful advocates for change. They are not only at the forefront of environmental activism but are also championing social justice initiatives that envision a more equitable future.

Nemonte Ayebe Nenquimo and Waorani Nation

One inspiring figure is Nemonte Ayebe Nenquimo, a proud member of the Waorani nation. When the Ecuadorian government sought to sell off seven million acres of Indigenous land in the Amazon to oil companies, Nenquimo rallied alongside 16 Waorani communities from Pastaza province to launch a campaign and file a lawsuit against the Ecuadorian State.

Their grassroots effort led to a landmark court ruling that protected 202,000 hectares of rainforest and affirmed the necessity for the government to obtain informed consent from Indigenous peoples before any developmental activities. This monumental victory was not just a legal triumph; it embodied the strength of women defending their rights and heritage.

Kichwa Women: First All Women Guard

Years after this landmark decision, over 40 Kichwa women boldly stood up in 2020 to protect their ancestral lands from encroaching mining activities. Today, they are pioneers as the first Indigenous guard committed to safeguarding their community's future.

With unwavering determination, these women patrol an area estimated to be between three and 3.9 square miles, vigilantly monitoring and defending against potential threats. Their vigilance has not only protected their community of 154 members but has also preserved the pristine beauty of their land and river amidst troubling reports of metal contamination in other areas.

Women Mayors Protecting Environment

Miles away from the Amazon, women in leadership positions are taking decisive action in their local cities to protect the environment. In January 2023, the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy (GCoM) in Latin America welcomed Ecuadorian mayors Diana Caiza of Ambato and Marciana Valdivieso of Manta as new representatives in the Mayors’ Forum. Both mayors are passionately committed to advancing environmental sustainability and combating climate change within their municipalities.

Mayor Diana Caiza has positioned Ambato as a leader in sustainable practices through innovative initiatives such as vertical gardens, air quality monitoring, and vegetable oil recycling. Later last year, she launched the "Ambato Florece" Environmental Education Program in collaboration with the Ministry of Education to instill a culture of environmental respect and stewardship among children within the canton. The program now is being rolled out across 19 educational units, reaching over 1,500 students from both urban and rural areas, thereby fostering environmental awareness and responsibility among young learners.

Meanwhile, Mayor Marciana Valdivieso’s leadership in Manta focuses on the Green Covenant initiative which aims at reducing pollution despite challenges like aging infrastructure and rapid population growth.

The involvement of these female leaders highlights the significance of diverse perspectives in tackling climate challenges across Latin America.

The Fight Remains

As the nation navigates its complex political landscape, these women are not only safeguarding their communities and natural resources but also setting a precedent for global action. Figures like Nemonte Ayebe Nenquimo and the Kichwa women exemplify resilience and leadership, demonstrating that grassroots activism can lead to significant legal victories and community empowerment. Meanwhile, female mayors such as Diana Caiza and Marciana Valdivieso illustrate how local governance can drive sustainable development through innovative programs and policies.

As Ecuador stands at this pivotal crossroads, the contributions of these women highlight a path forward that balances progress with preservation, ensuring a more just and sustainable future for all.

Carolina Borjas is a public affairs professional with a diverse client portfolio in Latin American affairs and environmental justice, holding an MA in Conflict, Security, and Development from King's College London, where she gained a deep understanding of global security challenges and policy responses.

https://substack.com/@carolinaborjas