Call for Expression of Interest: Early Livelihoods Recovery Project (Colombia)

The WFP Expression of Interest supports an early recovery project in Valle del Cauca to strengthen resilience, food security, and water access for indigenous communities. The initiative introduces fog harvesting technology, livelihood restoration, and community governance to address displacement challenges. It aims to build sustainable, community-driven systems that promote long-term stability and social cohesion.

What is this WFP Opportunity?

The World Food Programme (WFP) Expression of Interest (EOI) seeks cooperating partners to implement an early recovery initiative for indigenous communities in Valle del Cauca.

The project focuses on resilience building, water security, food assistance, and livelihood restoration for communities transitioning after displacement.

Target Area and Beneficiaries

Location

• Batatal Indigenous Reserve

Target Group

• Indigenous families resettling after displacement
• Communities facing water scarcity, livelihood loss, and food insecurity

Program Goals

• Strengthen human security and resilience
• Improve water access and governance
• Restore livelihoods and productive capacity
• Enhance food security and nutrition
• Promote social cohesion and conflict resolution

Key Focus Areas

1. Water Access and Climate Adaptation

• Introduction of fog harvesting technology
• Development of water harvesting systems
• Strengthening community water governance

2. Livelihood Restoration

• Provision of agricultural tools and inputs
• Support for farming and livestock activities
• Protection of productive assets

3. Food Assistance

• Distribution of food baskets for immediate relief
• Bridging short-term needs while recovery systems develop

4. Environmental Restoration

• Reforestation initiatives
• Protection of watersheds
• Promotion of ecological sustainability

5. Community Engagement and Social Cohesion

• Dialogue between indigenous and farming communities
• Conflict resolution over shared resources
• Participatory governance systems

Key Concepts Explained

Early Recovery

A phase that bridges humanitarian relief and long-term development, helping communities rebuild livelihoods and systems after crises.

Fog Harvesting Technology

An innovative method that:

• Captures water from atmospheric fog
• Provides a low-cost, sustainable water source
• Reduces reliance on contested water resources

Community Water Governance

Local systems where communities manage water resources collectively, ensuring fair access and sustainability.

Problem Context: Why This Initiative Matters

Key Challenges

• Displacement leading to loss of livelihoods
• Severe water scarcity in resettlement areas
• Conflict over shared water resources
• Risk of food insecurity and asset loss

Opportunity

• Utilize natural fog conditions for sustainable water solutions
• Build self-reliance and resilience
• Strengthen peaceful coexistence between communities

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants typically include:

• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
• Civil society organizations
• Development and humanitarian agencies

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Experience in food security, livelihoods, or WASH programs
• Capacity for community engagement and conflict resolution
• Technical expertise in water systems or climate adaptation
• Ability to operate in complex rural environments

Why This Initiative Matters

• Addresses critical water and food security challenges
• Promotes innovative climate adaptation solutions
• Supports sustainable livelihood recovery
• Strengthens community resilience and governance
• Encourages peaceful resource sharing and social cohesion

How to Apply / How It Works

Step-by-Step Process

1. Review the EOI requirements from WFP
2. Develop a proposal aligned with project objectives
3. Highlight experience in similar interventions
4. Define implementation strategy for target communities
5. Submit the application through the official WFP platform

What to Include in Your Proposal

• Organizational profile and relevant experience
• Implementation plan (water, livelihoods, food assistance)
• Community engagement strategy
• Technical approach (e.g., fog harvesting systems)
• Monitoring and evaluation framework
• Risk mitigation and sustainability plan

Tips for a Strong Application

• Emphasize experience in integrated recovery programs
• Demonstrate technical knowledge of water solutions
• Show strong community participation approaches
• Include clear sustainability and scalability plans
• Highlight conflict-sensitive programming

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring local conflict dynamics
• Weak technical approach to water systems
• Lack of integration between project components
• Insufficient community involvement
• Vague or unrealistic implementation plans

FAQs

1. What is the main goal of this WFP initiative?

To strengthen resilience, water access, and livelihoods for indigenous communities in Valle del Cauca.

2. What innovative solution is being introduced?

Fog harvesting technology for sustainable water access.

3. Who are the primary beneficiaries?

Indigenous families in the Batatal Indigenous Reserve.

4. What sectors are covered?

Water, food security, livelihoods, environmental restoration, and community governance.

5. Who can apply?

Organizations with relevant experience in humanitarian or development programs.

6. Is food assistance included?

Yes, short-term food support is part of the program.

7. What makes a strong proposal?

Technical expertise, community engagement, sustainability, and integrated solutions.

Conclusion

This WFP initiative offers a comprehensive approach to early recovery and resilience building by combining innovative water solutions, livelihood restoration, and community governance. By addressing both immediate needs and long-term sustainability, the program aims to help indigenous communities rebuild their lives with stability, dignity, and resilience.