The national government approved the creation of four new Peasant Reserve Zones (ZRC) during COP16.
The decision was made within the framework of the Board of Directors of the National Land Agency and represents a significant step after more than two decades of waiting by rural communities.
The new ZRC extend over more than 103,000 hectares in the departments of Antioquia, Tolima and Valle del Cauca, benefiting more than 4,000 families in the municipalities of Apartadó, Tarazá, Pradera, Santa Isabel and Anzoátegui. Felipe Harman, director of the National Land Agency, said: “Today we are talking about the contribution of four constitutions of Peasant Reserve Zones. In this government we highlight the 12 ZRC, requests that have been going on for more than 20 years, requests that cost the lives of social leaders, and that had never been recognized by the State and that today were approved by the Board of Directors. Congratulations to the peasant movement. In this way, Agrarian Reform and peace in the country are built.”
The creation of these ZRC seeks to guarantee access to land, strengthen the peasant economy in a sustainable manner and comply with the commitments of the first point of the Final Peace Agreement: Comprehensive Rural Reform. In a country marked by armed conflict, these territorial planning figures represent not only an act of social justice, but also a pillar in the construction of peace and governance.
Martha Carvajalino, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, highlighted the relevance of this achievement: “This is a work of more than a year in which, together with the Ministry of Environment and the communities, we adjust the legal system to present these four new ZRC . Today we can say that this Government has restored the rights of the peasantry in a timely and efficient manner. “Agriculture for life is essential to counteract climate change and to build governance in the territories.”
Details of the Peasant Reserve Zones:
Apartadó (Antioquia): With an area of 29,400 hectares, it will benefit 1,300 families.
Tarazá (Bajo Cauca, Antioquia): Covers 42,973 hectares and will benefit 811 families.
Pradera (Valle del Cauca): It occupies 8,545 hectares and will benefit 480 families. This ZRC is the first to be established in the Central Forest Reserve Zone under Law 2 of 1959.
Santa Isabel-Anzoátegui (Tolima): With 23,000 hectares, it will benefit 1,385 families and is led by the Association of Women Coffee Growers of Santa Isabel (ASOMUCASA).
Time.news Interview
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving into a transformative development for rural communities in Colombia. I’m joined by Felipe Harman, the director of the National Land Agency. Felipe, thank you for being here.
Felipe Harman: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here and discuss such an important topic.
Editor: Let’s get right into it! The recent decision during COP16 to create four new Peasant Reserve Zones (ZRC) is monumental. Can you share what these zones entail and why they are significant for the agricultural community?
Felipe Harman: Absolutely. The Peasant Reserve Zones are designated areas intended to protect and promote rural agricultural practices while ensuring that peasant families can maintain their livelihoods sustainably. This recent decision marks a significant step forward after more than 20 years of advocacy from rural communities for better land rights and support.
Editor: That’s insightful. Over 103,000 hectares will now serve more than 4,000 families across several municipalities. What impact do you believe this will have on these communities?
Felipe Harman: The impact is profound. These reserves provide a legal framework for land security, allowing families to farm without the fear of displacement from external pressures. It empowers communities not just economically, but socially, as it strengthens their ties to the land and enhances their ability to contribute to local food systems.
Editor: It’s exciting to think about the ripple effects this could create. What challenges did these rural communities face before this approval, and how does this decision address those issues?
Felipe Harman: For over two decades, these communities faced numerous obstacles, including threats to their land, lack of recognition, and in some tragic cases, violence against social leaders advocating for their rights. The approval of these ZRCs acknowledges their struggles and sacrifices, taking steps toward protecting their rights and fostering peace in the region.
Editor: It sounds like a significant victory for the peasant movement. What message do you have for the social leaders and communities that stood firm during those challenging times?
Felipe Harman: Congratulations to them for their resilience and dedication. Their efforts have been instrumental in bringing awareness to their plight. This achievement is a testament to their struggles and the unwavering spirit of the peasant movement in Colombia. It serves as a reminder that change is possible with persistent advocacy.
Editor: Those words will surely resonate. Moving forward, what steps will the National Land Agency take to ensure the successful implementation of these Peasant Reserve Zones?
Felipe Harman: Our agency is committed to working closely with these communities to develop comprehensive plans that ensure the sustainable management of these areas. This includes providing technical assistance, creating educational programs, and facilitating access to resources and markets for their agricultural products.
Editor: That sounds promising. In your opinion, how does this decision fit into the larger context of agrarian reform and peace-building efforts in Colombia?
Felipe Harman: It aligns closely with our goals for agrarian reform and long-term peace. By granting land rights and fostering sustainable practices in rural areas, we are addressing one of the root causes of conflict. This is not just about land; it’s about building a society that values equity and recognizes the rights of all its citizens—especially those who have been marginalized.
Editor: Felipe, thank you for sharing your insights today. It’s an encouraging moment for Colombia, and we look forward to seeing how these developments unfold.
Felipe Harman: Thank you. It’s a pivotal time for our rural communities, and I’m excited about the progress we’re making together.
Editor: Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story and other important topics at Time.news. Thank you for joining us!