Soledad Cuchilla and Adeliz Manzanedo at the II National Meeting of Women Defenders
Since ancient times, Indigenous peoples have cared for their territories through surveillance and monitoring. Today, these practices are being strengthened in the Monitoring and Control Committees (CVCs), groups of local volunteers who conduct patrols and report threats to protect forests and their biodiversity.
In the Regional Conservation Area: Carpish Montane Forest, Soledad Cuchilla Bedolla, treasurer of the CVC, Community policing has found a way to restore value to their territory. “What motivated me was the biodiversity of flora and fauna in our basin and the opportunity to protect them.», He comments. His work has been key to reducing illegal logging and controlling fires, achievements that strengthen his commitment to conservation.
For her part, Adeliz Manzanedo Huayta, a 19-year-old and president of the CVC, follows the example of her father, who always took care of the forest. “I am committed to protecting the biodiversity, flora and fauna in Huánuco,» he says.. Although she is young, Adeliz feels a responsibility to defend her home and territory, inspiring other young people to join this cause.
The work of these leaders is supported by the Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI), This effort, led by the Ministry of the Environment and implemented by Profonanpe, provides the CVC with the technical and financial resources it needs to address environmental threats and continue its conservation work.
Photo: BMC Control and Surveillance Committee
The role of women in conservation
Soledad highlights the importance of the role of women in the CVC, who, according to her, bring a unique perspective.“It's not difficult to be part of this committee because we bring skills, knowledge, and the ability to engage in dialogue with people from outside the organization.” he says with conviction.
For Adeliz, the role of young people in conservation is fundamental. “Our elders leave us with teachings, but we, as young people, have the knowledge to defend what is ours.” Her participation in a recent meeting of women leaders in Tarapoto has given her tools to strengthen her committee in Huánuco.
Both have a clear message: protecting the land today is guaranteeing a future for the next generations. As Soledad expresses, “We must take care of our natural areas because they are our heritage and the lungs of our land.” Adeliz concludes with a similar reflection: “Nature needs us today, because tomorrow may be too late.”
Regarding the Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) – Phase 2:
The Joint Declaration of Intent is a voluntary cooperation agreement signed by the governments of Peru, Norway, and Germany in 2014 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from deforestation and forest degradation. With the signing of this addendum, the United Kingdom joins the commitment by 2025, and USAID participates as an observer.
The DCI is led by the Ministry of the Environment and implemented by Profonanpe, with the participation of the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation, through SERFOR; the Ministry of Economy and Finance; the Ministry of Culture; the regional governments of San Martín, Huánuco, Ucayali, Loreto, Amazonas, and Madre de Dios; and the indigenous organizations AIDESEP, CONAP, and ANECAP. It also receives funding from the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD).
