In the sacred space of Uldainzhi (Bonda), located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Tayrona Indigenous Confederation (CIT) accompanied an important meeting with the Kogi people and its representative organisation, the Gonawindúa Tayrona Organization (OGT)the days 5 and 6 October 2025. The day was intended to advance the Development of an Indigenous Environmental Policyunder the principle of prior, free and informed consultation, framed in the Origin Act and territorial autonomy of the villages of the Sierra Nevada.
The event brought together Mamus, traditional sabers and authorities of the major Ezwamas of the Kogi People, who spiritually guided the discussions. From their worldview, they stressed that the protection of nature must understand the connection between snowy peaks, rivers and the sea, understanding the territory as one sacred body that must be kept in balance. This principle, as they explained, is essential for to restore the sacred sitespromoting natural regeneration and to ensure comprehensive preservation of all created.
During the meeting, participants stressed that the construction of an indigenous environmental policy not only seeks ecological conservation, but also strengthening ancestral autonomy and authority communities in the face of environmental decisions affecting their territories. In this regard, joint action lines were proposed between the CIT, OTT and the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, aimed at establishing a framework agreement on intercultural environmental coordination.
The commitment made in Uldainzhi marks a significant step towards a environmental management based on ancestral knowledge and respect for Black Linethe territorial and spiritual system that delimits and protects the sacred spaces of the indigenous peoples of the Sierra Nevada of Gonawindúa. This reaffirms the role of the indigenous peoples as natural balance guardians and key allies in the preservation of Colombia's ecological and cultural heritage.
