The construction of the Lambo Reservoir is one of the national strategy projects (PSN) which aims to provide raw water and irrigation needs in Nagekeo district. This development discourse has been present in Nagekeo since 1999. Where the development is still called the construction of the Mbai reservoir. However, the issue then disappeared because the community rejected the development, especially indigenous women.
At that time, the community's aspirations were conveyed directly by Jacob Nuwa Wea, Minister of Manpower and Transmigration to the mutual cooperation cabinet. However, after the expansion of Ngada district and the birth of Nagekeo district in 2008, the discourse on building the Lambo reservoir returned in 2015.
The community also rejected it again, especially rejecting the construction site in Lowo Se village. The Rendu indigenous people carried out struggle after struggle. Such as forming the Lambo Reservoir Rejection Forum (FPWL). He has written several times to the President, the People's Representative Council (DPR), the Governor, the National Land Agency (BPN), the NTT Regional Police (Polda), the Nagekeo Regional Government (Pemda), as well as the Presidential staff. However, the results were nil.
Rendu indigenous woman, Hermina Mawa, said that since the construction of the reservoir took place, the government had never directly involved indigenous communities. Especially traditional women in village development. “Only in 2015, indigenous women were only invited as participants to fulfill the quota. Without being given the opportunity to participate actively," explained Hermina, at the 'inclusive chat' event held by KEMITRAAN, on October 19 2023.
Hermina said that the construction of the reservoir would be a loss for her community, especially because their land would be lost. However, their rejection was seen as resistance to the national strategic project. It even led to physical violence and arrest by authorities in 2018.
Their struggle is not only related to the rejection of development at the site, but also to demands for compensation promised by the government. Even though local residents have given permission since 2022, until now, the promise of compensation has not been realized.
“Of the 58 heads of families who signed, only 8 received compensation. "What we emphasize is that their struggle is to obtain the rights they have lost, especially sources of livelihood and income," added Hermina.
What Hermina experienced was the same fear felt by Elisnawati, a traditional woman from Balik Pemaluan, East Kalimantan. Since the National Capital City (IKN) strategic project was established in 2019, Elisnawati and other Balik Pemaluan indigenous communities have begun to worry and worry about the development of this IKN.
Elisnawati, also shared a similar experience. In decision making and related forums, indigenous women are never directly involved. They only hear about issues that will be implemented, without the opportunity to voice their aspirations and needs. "National strategic projects involving more than 400 hectares of indigenous people's land are being planned, without adequate consultation," said Elisnawati.
Elisnawati highlighted that the project would be very detrimental to them. Because the land they take is where they manage their gardens and meet their daily needs. Indigenous women are not only excluded from decision making. However, adequate information about relocation and compensation was also not provided. They worry about losing their source of life, including the nimpa trees used for weaving and roofing materials for their houses. "In fact, even though the IKN project has a direct impact on their territory, indigenous women have never been invited to participate in deliberations until now," he stressed.
From the narratives of these two indigenous women, it is clear that their struggle is not only to reject development that could harm indigenous communities, but also to obtain their basic rights, participation in decision making, and protection from the violence they experience. In fact, steps towards the inclusion of indigenous women in the development process are a necessity to create a just and sustainable society.
The Importance of Involving Indigenous Women in Development
Involving indigenous women in the development process is a process of creating fairer and more democratic representation, reflecting the diversity of society and ensuring that the resulting policies cover the needs and aspirations of all citizens.
Indigenous women bring unique perspectives and different life experiences, which can enrich discussions and decision-making. This diversity of views can trigger innovation in designing more holistic and inclusive development solutions.
Indigenous women's participation in development can increase their economic and social empowerment. By providing better access to resources and opportunities, indigenous women can become agents of positive change in their communities.
They often have a central role in maintaining environmental balance and preserving local wisdom. Involving them in development can support cultural and environmental conservation efforts, resulting in culturally and ecologically sustainable solutions.
Involving them in development is key to achieving an inclusive and sustainable life. By overcoming the obstacles they face and empowering them economically, socially, and politically, we can create a more just and empowered society. The government and civil society need to unite to encourage positive change towards greater participation of indigenous women in development.
