Miskito Community Battles Trauma Ahead of Hurricane Season
The Miskito communities in Nicaragua and Honduras are still grappling with the aftermath of Hurricanes Eta and Iota, which struck last year. Despite their success in preparation and organization that resulted in no reported deaths, the destruction caused by the storms has left many families without homes and livelihoods.
More than 7 million people across Central America were affected by the hurricanes, causing damages estimated at over $700 billion. The Miskito community, in particular, has faced significant challenges in economic recovery, as their traditional sources of wealth, such as fishing, have been devastated.
The destruction of fishing equipment and resources has impacted the Miskito's ability to catch lobsters, shrimp, and fish, leading to a shortage of food and further exacerbating their hardships. Additionally, the lagoon in Nicaragua, once a source of fishing, is improving but fishing without proper tools remains complicated.
The Miskito people are relying heavily on prayer for the upcoming hurricane season, hoping it will be more forgiving than the last. However, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has projected an above-normal hurricane season, raising concerns for these communities.
The current situation is further complicated by ongoing challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic and pressures from narcotraffickers and illegal land grabbers are exacerbating the situation for the Miskito people. Illegal land grabbers have become emboldened during the pandemic, posing a threat to Indigenous communities' ability to prepare for hurricane season and climate change.
Access to freshwater is another ongoing issue, with community members still traveling long distances to find freshwater. Infrastructure damage from past hurricanes, like destroyed roads and limited transport options, also hampers access to assistance and sustainable development.
Despite these challenges, community and regional disaster relief agencies have been actively engaging in strengthening early warning systems and community resilience. Vice President Kamala Harris' recent visit to Guatemala, a neighbouring country heavily impacted by the hurricanes, highlights the international community's growing awareness of the situation.
However, Indigenous communities, such as the Miskito, are still calling for recognition from national governments and the international community as sovereign entities. This recognition is crucial for their ability to protect their lands, resources, and cultures, and to ensure their long-term survival and resilience.
References: 1. [Source 1] 2. [Source 2] 3. [Source 3] 4. [Source 4] 5. [Source 5]
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