Defending the Amazon: The Courageous Journey of Jani Silva in Puerto Asis, Colombia
In Puerto Asis, Colombia, Jani Silva, an environmental activist, faces threats for her work protecting the Amazon from oil and mining exploitation. She had to flee her home due to armed men outside and now lives under guard in Puerto Asis. Despite the risks, she remains committed to her role at ADISPA, a farming association managing the Amazon Pearl reserve.
Colombia is the deadliest country for land and forest protectors, with 48 killings recorded in 2024. The National Protection Unit provides security measures for activists, but challenges persist, especially in rural conflict zones. The Amazon Pearl reserve, home to 800 families, faces threats from oil drilling, deforestation, and armed groups enforcing these activities.
Silva and ADISPA have been vocal against oil operations in the reserve, documenting spills and deforestation linked to GeoPark's Platanillo block. The company denies any involvement with armed groups and emphasizes compliance with environmental regulations. The community-led efforts in the reserve include reforestation projects, beekeeping initiatives, and conservation programs to protect the biodiversity and forests.
Armed groups like the Comandos de la Frontera control territory in Putumayo, profiting from illegal activities like coca cultivation and mining. The power vacuums left by the demobilization of FARC have allowed these groups to tighten their grip on the region, leading to serious abuses against civilians. Despite the challenges, Silva's long-term vision has inspired new leaders and empowered young people to resist recruitment by armed groups.
Silva's daughter, Anggie Miramar Silva, is part of ADISPA's technical team and has grown up witnessing her mother's dedication to defending the land. While she admires her mother's resolve, she is unsure if she is willing to make the same sacrifices. Jani Silva remains determined to continue her work, emphasizing the need for more people to join the cause in defending the future of the Amazon.