Their survival is our survival, said Antonio

Bujumbura, 9th August , 2024 Gako News -Blog On the Indegenious peoples' international day , the UN SG, Antonio Guterres regreted UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples – are yet to be fulfilled.

According to Antonio, Indigenous Peoples represent around 6 per cent of the world's population. Yet their stewardship signifies an outsized contribution to our global community. They are the keepers of knowledge and traditions that help safeguard some of the most biodiverse areas of our planet.

As guardians of the environment, their survival is our survival, he said. 

Either in Canada with the largest number of indegenious peoples- over 600 communities- or  elsewhere, like in Burundi, their unique way of life is a testament to the rich tapestry of humanity but  they also face serious challenges that threaten their very existence. Indigenous Peoples are often the victims of threats and violence.

Extractive and productive sectors, like mining, agriculture, and transport have accelerated deforestation and land degradation; Antonio added. 

In Burundi, only one minister comes from the indegenious people. Manirakiza Manasse, a representative of Batwa community in Makamaba province said that only 26 pupils under graduated whereas 6 students tried to attend university studies. In Nyanza-Lac commune, among 500 batwa families, none have motocycle taxi, said Manasse .   

               

This year’s theme reminds us of their rights to protect themselves from unwanted contact. Contact that can have a devastating impact.bExposure to infectious diseases, forced assimilation, and the disruption of culture, language. 

The UN SG called upon  the world to stand behind the rights of Indigenous Peoples to chart their

own futures.