The World Bank has approved a US$80 million project to improve the infrastructure and quality of health, education, water and sanitation services in 12 Indigenous territories of Panama. The innovative project is based on the priorities established by the Indigenous communities and their traditional leaders.
The loan will support the implementation of the Comprehensive National Plan for Indigenous Peoples of Panama. which aims to support the capacity of Indigenous Authorities and the Panamanian Government to work together to plan and implement development in Indigenous territories. It also aims to improve the quality, cultural relevance and sustainability of investments in Indigenous territories.
The total project budget is US$85 million, of which US$80 million will be financed with a loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD). The 25-year loan will have a grace period of 5.5 years.
Indigenous community leader of Maximiliano Igwayoikiler, Guna Yala said, “This support in the Development Plan is important as the Indigenous peoples have shared their development vision with the national government. These are isolated communities which need access to roads, schools, medical clinics, and water, all the while maintaining their culture and identity, defending their territories and protecting the natural resources that are life for the Native Peoples and the country.”
The project will directly assist some 200,000 people through improved infrastructure and better quality and cultural relevance of services provided in their communities. The program is also expected to contribute to national climate change objectives by applying sustainable standards and practices to the construction of health, education, water and sanitation facilities.
The Interior Minister of Panama, María Luisa Romero said, “From the outset, this government has been firmly committed to defending and promoting human rights in which increased participation of Indigenous peoples and state policies to improve their quality of life are central issues. We recognize the rights of native peoples as the backbone of Panamanian culture.”
The project draws on the World Bank’s experience in different sectors and countries with Indigenous peoples to address issues including inclusion, development and access to information and data, systems to provide intercultural services, and permanent round tables for coordination between the government and Indigenous leaders. This project seeks to create a comprehensive development platform that can be replicated in other countries.