Strategic alliance of the hydrocarbon sector promotes the development and strengthening of indigenous communities in Puerto Gaitán, Meta.

• The project includes improvement of the management and direction system of the organization, provision and maintenance of the headquarters.
• The investment includes contributions from the companies Frontera Energy, Hocol, Cepsa, and Tecpetrol, and benefits more than 10 indigenous reserves, five councils, and three settlements.

With the aim of promoting the participatory and inclusive development of the indigenous communities of the municipality of Puerto Gaitán, Meta, the Colombian Association of Oil and Gas (ACP) leads a project for the administrative strengthening, improvement of the management system, provision, and maintenance of the headquarters of the indigenous organization ASOUNUMA. The provision of equipment and furniture was delivered today.

The initiative, which is made possible by contributions from the operating companies Frontera Energy, Hocol, Cepsa, and Tecpetrol, seeks to facilitate participation in the regional development processes of the communities grouped in ASOUNUMA: 10 indigenous reserves (Wacoyo, Iwiwi, Walianani, Domo Planas, Awaliba, El Tigre, Corozal Tapaojo, Unuma Meta, Vencedor Piripi, and Aseinpome); five councils (Alto Patenae, Barrulia, Iwitsulibo, San Rafael Warrojo, and Tshavilonia); three settlements (Florida Kawinanae, Urbanos Akasinanae, and Sisipiatu); and the community La Campana.

«The implementation of this project promotes an inclusive management model, with a differential approach, of rights and diversity, mainly aimed at expanding the management capacity of these indigenous communities; which reflects the commitment of the oil and gas sector to sustainable development and the well-being of communities in the regions where it operates, in this case, recognizing the importance of promoting the guarantee of human rights and preserving the autonomy and culture of the indigenous population,» stated Frank Pearl, president of the ACP.

The project is the result of a constructive and participatory relationship between the industry, communities, authorities, and local and regional entities; within which, processes of formalization and entrepreneurship directed at indigenous groups are also being managed, among other actions, to contribute to the improvement of the quality of life of this population, through the qualification and strengthening of their capacities for dialogue and promotion of territorial development strategies and policies. In addition, the ACP aims to articulate contributions and promote international cooperation efforts.