Ecuadorean tribe say they will ‘die fighting’ to protect rainforest

It’s a David versus Goliath battle. An indigenous community of about 400 people is gearing up to take on the Ecuadorean army and one of the biggest oil companies in South America, according to the Guardian newspaper.

The Kichwa tribe on Sani Isla, who were using blowpipes two generations ago, said they are ready to fight to the death to protect their territory, which covers 70,000 hectares of pristine rainforest, says the Guardian.

Petroamazonas – the state-backed oil company – have told them it will begin prospecting on 15 January, backed by public security forces.

The community has an unlikely ally – a British businesswoman, Mari Muench, married to the local shaman. Her husband, Patricio Jipa, says if there is a physical fight, it is certain to end tragically.

“We may die fighting to defend the rainforest. We would prefer passive resistance, but this may not be possible,” says the shaman and former community leader. “We will not start conflict, but we will try to block them and then what happens will happen.”

For the full report and video, visit the Guardian newspaper.