ETHNO-PROGRAM TO PROTECT BIODIVERSITY THROUGH FOOTBALL IN THE COLOMBIAN AMAZON BASIN

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The “ETHNO-PROGRAM TO PROTECT BIODIVERSITY THROUGH FOOTBALL IN THE COLOMBIAN AMAZON BASIN” is a comprehensive strategy designed by the ENVIRONMENTAL WOMEN org to address the serious problem of illegal wildlife trafficking in the Colombian Amazon basin. This program focuses on the participation of Ticuna indigenous boys and girls, between the ages of 8 and 18, who are used by criminal structures to carry out activities related to the capture, transportation, purchase-sale, cage and logistics of endemic fauna and flora species.
The program consists of four interconnected and complementary components: educational, football, sustainability and communication. The educational component is essential to generate awareness and knowledge among Ticuna children about the importance of conserving Amazonian biodiversity and the dangers associated with the illegal trafficking of species. Through the implementation of educational programs and workshops, it seeks to integrate the traditional knowledge of indigenous communities with scientific knowledge to promote sustainable practices and the protection of endemic fauna and flora.
The soccer component of the program uses soccer as a powerful tool to engage Ticuna children in recreational and sporting activities. Through the practice of soccer, values such as teamwork, respect and sportsmanship are promoted, at the same time that they are offered a healthy and positive alternative to move them away from the criminal environment of species trafficking.
The sustainability component aims to strengthen the capacity of indigenous communities to protect and sustainably manage natural resources in the Amazon basin. Conservation, reforestation and responsible use of natural resources projects will be implemented, actively involving the indigenous families benefiting from the program. In addition, the creation of sustainable enterprises based on the valorization of Amazonian biodiversity will be encouraged, thus generating economic opportunities for indigenous communities.
The communication component seeks to disseminate the achievements and advances of the program, as well as to raise awareness in society in general about the importance of protecting biodiversity and combating the illegal trafficking of species in the Amazon basin. Effective communication strategies, such as awareness campaigns, community events and the media, will be used to promote the active participation of society in the protection of the region’s natural heritage.
It is estimated that the program will benefit 300 Ticuna indigenous families, which represents approximately 5,000 boys and girls involved in the activities. The gender approach is a priority in the program, ensuring the equal participation of girls and boys in all stages and components of the project.
With this comprehensive approach and the active participation of indigenous communities, the “Football for Life Project: Protecting Amazon Biodiversity” program seeks to generate a significant impact in the fight against illegal trafficking of species in the Colombian Amazon basin, promoting conservation of biodiversity, the empowerment of Ticuna children and the sustainable development of indigenous communities.