The water resource in the wayuu indigenous communities of la guajira colombiana. Part 2: Qualitative study of the conditions of hygiene, cleanliness and water availability

Abstract

The study had the purpose of analyzing, through the implementation of qualitative research tools, the conditions of hygiene, cleanliness and water disposal resource in the indigenous communities of the Colombian guajira. The conceptions that the population has related to water and basic sanitation within their territories were identified in the analyzed zones. The appreciations of the population in relation to water quality have been conditioned by cultural factors and the relationships they have established over the years with their natural environment. The results show that jagüeyes (ditches) and wells are the main sources of water supply that implement the Wayuu ethnic group in the department. It is concluded that bad hygienic habits, living conditions, the dispersion of indigenous territories, the lack of efficient supply systems and institutional absence are the main causes that affect the consumption of water of poor quality.