Nicaragua is the second-largest country in Central America in terms of area, with a population of 6.4 million. With one inhabitant in five living below the poverty line, there is significant inequality in the distribution of wealth. Nicaragua is also the fourth most vulnerable country in the world to face the impacts of climate change, yet it is one of the least prepared. The poor are the most affected by natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, droughts, and recurring hurricanes, along with environmental degradation. In addition, the political and social crisis of 2018 has led to an economic recession, increasing the level of poverty of the most vulnerable populations. All these factors have created a situation of insecurity and risk in the face of a changing climate.
The Island of Rama Cay is home to most of the Rama indigenous population of Nicaragua, but now an increasing population alongside the geographical limits of the island of Rama Cay are causing the community to suffer severe overcrowding, water contamination, and poor living conditions generally. Within this context, a housing project is being developed in Rama Maneland, a new urbanization zone off the island of Rama Cay. Rama Maneland is envisioned as an extension of Rama Cay to alleviate the overpopulation of the island and support the Rama people.
The mission of blueEnergy is to empower healthy families and resilient communities by unlocking access to renewable energy, safe water, sanitation, hygiene, and sustainable food security in the face of a changing climate. With a focus on some of the world’s most isolated, marginalized communities, blueEnergy has been working on the Caribbean Coast of Nicaragua since 2004 to help the most vulnerable, poor, and isolated populations of the region to improve their living conditions, strengthen their individual and organizational capacity, and engage in productive entrepreneurship. The Rama Community Development project thus seeks to reduce energy poverty and contribute sustainably through the introduction of renewable energies, contributing to the improvement of the quality of life of the indigenous peoples, with over 3,000 people who will benefit directly and indirectly.
