Inés Chapi is an Ecuadorian Indian woman who was born in Licto, near Riobamba. She has suffered from oppression and discrimination from white and mestizo (mixed Spanish and Indian origins) farmers before becoming a respected irrigation organised and peasant leader. In the Andean region, local and indigenous water rights and rules have been largely neglected for centuries. The indigenous population is fighting not only for their water but also for recognition of their water rules, authority and culture as well.

Read the full Source Bulletin feature article, August 2004.