The Chakana: a symbol of the Andean worldview in community water management, and a form of governance of life

Abstract

Global water management planning and governance are often based on hegemonic paradigms and approaches that overlook local realities, thereby marginalizing the knowledge of populations in ancestral territories. We aimed to define a water management and handling model for irrigated community territories, incorporating the dimensions of the Andean worldview in Ecuador. The ideal type methodology was used to conceptualize the actions practiced by community organizations that manage water in the Kayambi people’s territory. Interviews were conducted with elders and leaders, and seven workshops were held with representatives from five irrigation organizations within the Tabacundo acequia (canal). The findings distinguish between management and operational activities in community water systems. These organizations operate based on customs and traditions, where the Chakana, a symbol of Andean peoples, harmonizes various elements for wise water breeding, upholding principles across its dimensions (family, community, chakra [agro-productive unit]), and geobiodiversity. The proposed management and handling model serves as a guiding framework for water governance and planning, integrating contemporary knowledge with the ancestral wisdom of water-connected communities.