In the first four months of 2023, 458 fires have been registered in the Indio Maíz Biological Reserve. This would mean the advance of the livestock border, denounced the Rama and Kriol Territorial Government, communities of Indian River; Greytown and Corn River.
Through a statement, the indigenous leadership explains that the Indio Maíz Biological Reserve is a “Natural Sanctuary for indigenous Rama and Kriol Afro-descendants.”
“The Rama and Kriol Territorial Government together with the communities of Indian River, Gravtown and Com River express our deep concern about the situation of the Indio Maiz Biological Reserve, in southeastern Nicaragua,” the statement said.
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“So far in 2023, we have detected 458 fires within the limits of the reserve, and the presence of outbreaks has been reported even in the geographical center of its nucleus,” he adds.
The data collected reflects that the peak days where the highest number of hot spots have been reported are April 26, 27 and 24, 2023, days in which 85, 68 and 59 fires were registered respectively.
“… which constitutes a worrying increase in the frequency and distance within the limits of the reserve of these events compared to previous years, which suggests an advance of the livestock border within it,” denounced the indigenous leaders.
In the Caribbean communities of Nicaragua, a series of attacks perpetrated against indigenous peoples have been recorded. Internal organizations have denounced the massacres and demand that the State “comply with its obligation” and guarantee due protection to life, security and integrity of the territories.
The attacks have been registered in the Wilú, Musawas and Sabakitang communities. The most recent massacre against indigenous inhabitants took place on March 10, when armed settlers attacked “in cold blood” the inhabitants of the Wilú indigenous community, in the Mayangna Sauni As territory.
“A person who fled the place reported the death of five community members and the number of dead women and children is unknown, although he assures that there are several,” alerted the Center for Legal Assistance to Indigenous Peoples.
