Sianëtsio sikowa’i: “Amazon Always Connected”

Objective of the Project

The project, “Sianëtsio sikowa’i: Amazon Always Connected,” seeks to bridge the digital divide for the Siekopaai Indigenous communities across Ecuador and Peru by establishing community-owned and managed Internet networks. It aims to empower Indigenous women through digital skills and leadership in network management, enabling communities to reconnect across borders, share knowledge, protect their ancestral lands, and create new economic opportunities while preserving their cultural heritage.

Why is this Project Important?

The Siekopaai communities face limited Internet access, geographical isolation, and barriers to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. These challenges also threaten cultural preservation and communication between families separated by national borders. By providing meaningful connectivity and placing Indigenous women at the heart of decision-making, the project strengthens community leadership, supports local livelihoods, and enables the preservation of ancestral knowledge. Its community-led approach ensures that technology serves the needs and priorities of Indigenous people while supporting cultural identity and territorial protection.

Media and Publications

Indigenous Women at the Heart of the Amazon’s Digital Future