Women in Oaxaca revitalize ancient water preservation methods

Indigenous women in Oaxaca are adopting ancestral techniques to combat severe droughts and water scarcity.

Stephania Corpi Arnaud reports for BBC.

In short:

• Agustina Ortiz and other women are using ferro-cement water tanks to collect and purify rainwater.
• They grow drought-resistant crops, ensuring food security and creating income through surplus sales.
• The nonprofit Grupedsac trains these women in sustainable water and land management practices.

Key quote:

"We need to empower these women, but we also need to understand that the word empowerment means different things in our societies."

— Joaquin Carrillo, director of Grupedsac's Oaxaca center

Why this matters:

Water scarcity is intensifying in Oaxaca, impacting agriculture and daily life. Teaching sustainable water management and empowering women enhances community resilience against climate change.