The 16th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP16) on biodiversity wrapped up its global gathering in Colombia this week. The focus of the conference was on the battle against climate change, and one of the key areas highlighted was the Wayúu community’s unique approach to farming in the face of environmental challenges.
The Wayúu people have lived in one of the world’s most inhospitable environments for centuries, facing drought, floods, relentless sun, strong winds, scarce rainfall, and extreme temperatures. Despite these challenges, they have developed a deep understanding of their environment and have found ways to adapt and thrive.
One of the key strategies the Wayúu have employed is the cultivation of a unique variety of cowpea known as the Guajiro bean. This bean, also called the kapeshuna bean, is known for its resilience and ability to thrive in harsh conditions. Manuel Montiel, a member of the Wayúu community in Ipasharrain village, described the Guajiro bean as tough and durable, saying that it actually gets stronger when stepped on.
The Guajiro bean has become a crucial part of the Wayúu diet, providing a reliable source of food in a region where traditional crops struggle to grow. The bean takes only 45 to 50 days to grow, making it a fast and efficient source of nutrition for the community.
In addition to its nutritional value, the Guajiro bean is also a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Ana Griselda Gonzalez, another member of the Wayúu community, shared some of the ways the bean is prepared in Ipasharrain village. It can be eaten raw as a snack, cooked in soups, or roasted and paired with goat cheese. The bean has been a staple in Wayúu cuisine for generations, providing sustenance even in the most challenging times.
The Wayúu community’s reliance on the Guajiro bean has become even more critical in recent years as climate change has intensified in the region. Two decades ago, predictable rainy and dry seasons gave way to unpredictable weather patterns, including prolonged droughts and extreme temperatures. The devastating effects of climate change have shattered centuries-old food security for the Wayúu people, leading to malnutrition, disease, and loss of agricultural productivity.
Between 2012 and 2016, La Guajira experienced a severe drought that affected over 900,000 inhabitants, including roughly 450,000 Wayúu people. The community struggled to find enough food to eat, and many native seeds were lost during this period. The Guajiro bean, with its resilience and adaptability, has become a lifeline for the Wayúu people in the face of these challenges.
Despite the hardships they have faced, the Wayúu community remains committed to preserving their traditions and way of life. By combining traditional knowledge with agrobiodiversity practices, they have found a way to sustain themselves in a changing climate. The Guajiro bean is not just a source of food for the Wayúu people; it is a symbol of their resilience and determination to overcome adversity.
As COP16 comes to a close, the story of the Wayúu community serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving biodiversity and traditional knowledge in the face of climate change. The Guajiro bean is not just a crop; it is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of indigenous communities around the world.
