Honduras: Las Barras’ Journey to Relocation

In Omoa, Cortés, Honduras, the coastal community of Las Barras de Motagua y Cuyamel (Las Barras) had been struggling with the erosion of its coastline since 1985, losing homes and livelihoods to the unforgiving sea.

By 2022, the population which had once exceeded a thousand, steadily declined to around 300, facing abandonment by the government despite promises of relocation. However, with the intervention of Cuso International’s SHARE program, the community found a lifeline.

The Sharing Canadian Expertise for Inclusive Development and Gender Equality (SHARE) program provides targeted technical assistance to local partners to advance gender equality and empowerment of women and marginalized groups, increase access to decent economic opportunities, and strengthen networks, platforms, and associations to promote gender equality and social inclusion.

Led by Christopher Popowycz, a dedicated Cuso International volunteer, and supported by organizations such as the Comisión de Acción Social Menonita (CASM) and Centro de Estudios Marinos (CEM), SHARE embarked on a journey to address the dire consequences of climate change on Las Barras’ residents.

The program’s first objective was to conduct a comprehensive investigation into climate change and climate justice, shedding light on the community’s plight. Through meticulous research and collaboration, SHARE brought national and international attention to Las Barras’ struggle, ultimately paving the way for their relocation.

“The initial investigation was the grain of sand for the mountainous process of their relocation,” said the community’s president, Santos Fransisco Diez Romero (Chico).

Following the investigation, a coalition of international and local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) collaborated to relocate residents and build 74 homes for the affected families, leading to a new chapter for the community.

The success of the relocation process shows the resilience and determination of the people of Las Barras’. Despite the upheaval, the community embraced their new home, now known as La Unión Barras, with optimism and hope.