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Women Fight Fires, Defend Borneo's Forests
16 Sep
Summary
- All-female firefighting team combats wildfires in Borneo.
- Members trained in firefighting and drone surveillance.
- Group educates communities on risks of land burning.
In Indonesia's West Kalimantan, the "Power of Mama" is Indonesia's pioneering all-female firefighting unit, dedicated to protecting Borneo's biodiverse regions. This group, comprising 146 women aged 10 to 58 from ten villages, was established in 2022 by the NGO YIARI.
They undergo extensive training, including firefighting techniques and drone operation, patrolling hazardous areas daily. Their mission involves identifying fire hotspots and alerting the Manggala Agni forestry brigade, while also educating local communities about the detrimental effects of illegal land clearing via burning.
Members report facing community resistance and patriarchal skepticism. However, they gently persuade villagers to control fires, emphasizing the health risks to children. This year, an intensifying "super" El Niño and a prolonged dry spell have worsened the fire situation, with thousands of hotspots detected.
Peatland fires, notoriously difficult to extinguish due to underground burning, are a significant challenge. In Sungai Putri, extreme water shortages are making firefighting efforts exceptionally arduous. The team's dedication is vital, as they were recognized in 2023 with the Indonesian Clean Air Championship award.
