"The Afro-descendant community of Yurumangui traces its roots to enslaved Africans who were brought to mine gold between the 17th and 19th centuries. They have lived there ever since, working in the fields and artisanal mines, caring for the land, and fishing for food."
"We have lived here for more than 350 years, and this has been the most difficult time ever experienced. Multinationals and armed groups come to the territory to plunder, to undo what we have taken care of."
"This practice enabled Juntas to bring together about 1,500 people in 2025 who had not seen one another for years because of violence. For a community with no more than 800 inhabitants, it was the highest number of people in the village in recent years."
Every year, Afro-Colombians travel to Juntas for the Manacillos festival, a celebration of their heritage and resilience. The community, tracing its roots to enslaved Africans, has faced economic instability and violence, leading many to flee. The festival serves as a unifying event, attracting those who have been displaced. Local leaders emphasize the importance of standing against exploitation by multinationals and armed groups, as they strive to protect their way of life and maintain their connection to the land and river.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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