Impact Spotlight
Installing 20 autonomous solar systems across three Sápara communities
Powering homes and daily life for ~80 people across Ripano, Masaramu, and Jandiayaku
Training 20 community members in solar maintenance and environmental awareness
About
The Sápara people live in one of the most biologically and culturally rich regions of the Amazon, 98% of which remains conserved despite constant pressure from oil development and systemic state neglect. ASHIÑWAKA, the Association of Sápara Women of Ecuador, leads efforts to safeguard this territory by centering Indigenous women in the defense of land, language, and life. Their work focuses on advancing community autonomy through climate resilience, cultural revitalization, and clean, decentralized energy.
“Our ancestors taught us to live in harmony with the forest. Today, we women are leading the way to protect our territory with clean energy and collective strength. This project is not only about light—it is about autonomy, dignity, and the survival of our people.”
HF Partnership
ASHIÑWAKA’s Tsamaru Sápara initiative brings off-grid solar to three Sápara communities—Ripano, Masaramu, and Jandiayaku—where diesel fuel is scarce, expensive, and environmentally harmful. With support from the Honnold Foundation, they will install 20 autonomous solar systems to provide reliable power for roughly 80 residents. The project includes technical training for 20 local community members in system operation, maintenance, and environmental stewardship. ASHIÑWAKA’s long-term goal is to reinforce Sápara energy sovereignty while preserving more than 10,000 hectares of primary rainforest through Indigenous-led solutions.
In the News
