Indigenous migrants, particularly the Wayuu, are facing worsening droughts and floods in Colombia, especially in Maicao. Nelly Mengual, a member of this community, recounts her experiences of losing her home to extreme weather. Many Wayuu flee from Venezuela and confront severe infrastructural challenges, living in informal settlements without basic services. Their perception of the border underscores their cultural unity beyond political boundaries.
Indigenous migrants in Colombia, particularly the Wayuu people, are confronting exacerbating droughts and floods impacting their living conditions. In Maicao, Nelly Mengual, a 47-year-old resident, describes the stark reality of her existence, detailing how severe weather conditions caused substantial destruction to her makeshift shelter made from scrap materials. The informal settlements on the outskirts of Riohacha serve as home to thousands of Wayuu individuals who have migrated from Venezuela, primarily to escape economic hardship.
The Wayuu community, while many were born in Colombia, faces significant challenges, particularly those who fled Venezuela. These individuals inhabit areas devoid of basic amenities such as running water and electricity. The Wayuu perceive the Colombia-Venezuela border as a mere political division, as their cultural ties and familial networks extend across both nations. Nelly Mengual reflects on her losses, having had to salvage what she could after floods ruined her home and possessions. She sustains her family by collecting and recycling scrap material in the locality, demonstrating resilience amid adversity.
In conclusion, the Indigenous Wayuu migrants in Colombia are grappling with the dual threats of drought and flooding, which significantly compromise their living conditions. The stark contrast between their cultural identity and the political borders illustrates their resilience as they navigate challenges without essential resources. Individuals like Nelly Mengual exemplify the struggle faced by many in this community, as they continue to persevere amid severe hardships.
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