Ecuador: Collectors and Fisherwomen - Rhizomes of Life

The aim of the project is to facilitate the collaborative development of proposals to support the adaptation to challenging scenarios of gatherer and fisherfolk families residing in mangrove estuaries, in response to changing circumstances within coastal marine territories affected by impoverishment, climate change and ecosystem degradation.

The project is structured around two core pillars:

(I) educational platform review and iteration and

(II) the strengthening of regional and international networks.

These elements unite to generate a robust theoretical, practical, and methodological programme that will augment the capabilities of potential participants, while enhancing the development of the facilitators, technicians, and leaders that participated in the pilot and are associated with C-CONDEM.

Approximately 30 families across four coastal provinces of Ecuador (Esmeraldas, Manabí, El Oro, and Guayas) and an intermediary province (Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas) will benefit directly from this initiative. This is a subsequent phase from the pilot that will enable additional development.

The C-CONDEM will manage the project, striving to make a significant impact on the protection and enhancement of marine-coastal social-ecological systems through social engagement and political advocacy.

The project has made significant progress in community building and knowledge transfer.

• Establishment of ‘Beautiful and Tasty Life Care Spaces’ (ABIFs) in several communities.
• Positive feedback from partners and participants confirming the transformative impact of the educational platform.
• Challenges in financing and resource allocation to meet the increasing demand from women who want to participate.

International networks and solidarity: C-CONDEM has actively participated in international forums to promote the rights and knowledge of coastal communities.

• Participation in global events such as the World Forum on Small-Scale Fisheries and the World Assembly on Food Sovereignty.
• Strengthening of the REDMANGLAR network through regional meetings and exchange visits.
  Promotion of territorial rights and socio-ecological restoration in international forums.