This summer, Christian Aid Chair Bishop Sarah Mullally and CEO Patrick Watt travelled to Colombia to meet with key partners and grassroots organisations.
Their journey offered a powerful glimpse into the work being done on the ground to defend indigenous lands and support women-led agroecology initiatives. These communities are leading efforts for justice, equality, and environmental protection, with Bishop Sarah and Patrick witnessing first-hand the impact of these vital causes.
Empowering women farmers in Colombia
In the mountains of Santander, Colombia, Bishop Sarah and Patrick visited smallholder farming communities working alongside Christian Aid partner, Corambiente. This stop on the trip showcased how grassroots efforts led by women are creating resilient, sustainable futures.
Yolanda Leon, a local farmer, welcomed the two to her vegetable garden, where traditional knowledge passed down through generations meets innovations like organic fertilisers and biodigesters. The farm is part of a larger community effort that not only feeds families but enables women to sell surplus produce at local markets. This financial autonomy has given women in these communities a greater role in family decision-making and local leadership.
Reflecting on the visit, Bishop Sarah commented: ‘These women are not only feeding their families but are sowing the seeds of a sustainable future for their entire community.’
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Women lawyers defending victims amid hostility
In Colombia, Patrick and Bishop Sarah met the Colectivo de Abogadas Luis Carlos Pérez (CCALCP), a brave group of young women lawyers fighting for human rights in some of the country’s most dangerous areas, like El Catatumbo and Magdalena Medio. Their work to uphold the 2016 Peace Agreement with the FARC is not only commendable but also vital in a landscape marked by violence.
CCALCP has pioneered a restorative justice approach, empowering victims to have a voice in their healing process. During their meeting, Patrick and Bishop Sarah were inspired by the group's innovative proposals, designed to engage local and national authorities in meaningful ways. These initiatives aim to centre victims in the justice system and help rebuild communities shattered by conflict. With the continued support of Christian Aid, CCALCP is dedicated to turning the tide for victims and promoting a just future for all.
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Championing LGBTIQ+ rights in Honduras
In Honduras, Patrick visited SOMOS CDC (Centro para el Desarrollo y Cooperación), an organisation that Christian Aid has supported since 2022. SOMOS CDC advocates for the rights of LGBTIQ+ people, focusing on human rights, access to justice and political participation. In a context where violence and exclusion remain prevalent, SOMOS CDC has expanded its work through Christian Aid’s backing, with support beginning from a Small Projects Fund in 2012.
David Valle, SOMOS CDC’s Justice Programme Manager, reflected on this partnership: ‘Tears come to my eyes when I remember how we started, with a small space and equipment, but the impact has been immense.’
Reflecting with civil society partners
Patrick held a key meeting in Honduras with Christian Aid partners from Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras. This session allowed civil society organisations to reflect on their work amid shifting political climates, addressing racial and gender justice, and forging cross-border alliances. Carolina Amaya from UNES in El Salvador said, ‘We have built very successful roots at national and regional levels through our partnership with Christian Aid.’
Churches’ role in promoting peace was a common theme. Nelson Garcia Lobo from the Mennonite Social Action Commission (CASM) remarked, ‘Churches play a crucial role in defending our communities and advocating for peace.’
We work with some of the world's most vulnerable communities in countries in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Latin America and the Caribbean.
A hopeful future for Latin America
Throughout their journey, Patrick Watt and Bishop Sarah Mullally encountered resilience, innovation and hope in communities across Colombia and Honduras. Whether through defending human rights, promoting peace, or building sustainable livelihoods, the changemakers they met are making a lasting impact.
As Bishop Sarah remarked during their visit to Santander, ‘I know that the future of Colombia is safe in your hands.’
This visit reaffirms our commitment to supporting these inspiring individuals and organisations in their transformative work for justice, equality and peace across Latin America.
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