Communication System for Peace Corporation - SIPAZ

High quality internet is almost nonexistent in rural and isolated communities in Colombia, and this digital gap has become even more harmful in the wake of COVID-19.

Local populations cannot access online education and training, telemedicine visits, market information, reliable news, social services, and other opportunities.

At the IAF, we support community-led approaches to building peace and security by enhancing communication within and between communities.

Our grantee partner Corporacin Sistema de Comunicacin Para La Paz (SIPAZ) is piloting four community-based communications enterprises that sell broadband services at reduced cost to rural communities, grassroots organizations, and social leaders, promoting the digital access and civic engagement of traditionally marginalized groups and those building peace from the ground up.

Amendment FY21 : This amendment provides SIPAZ with an additional $33,142 to address the effects of Hurricanes Eta and Iota and subsequent weather events.

SIPAZ will manage a hurricane recovery fund to replace and repair radio equipment damaged by high winds and flooding, benefiting community radio stations and three community radio networks in Sucre, Bolvar, and Choc.This amendment is part of the IAF?s broader Eta/Iota response strategy.

Amendment FY24 :This amendment provides SIPAZ with an additional $233,650 to set up and staff a third internet hub in Timbo, Cauca, and to implement a new certificate course in Timbio on the strategic use of communication.

The amendment will also invest in the sustainability of the internet venture by creating a long-term social enterprise business plan for SiSipaz, SIPAZ?s last-mile internet initiative, and enable the enterprise to access an IAF-funded social impact fund paid only on achievement of profitability for the initial internet nodes and on securing reimbursable investment in SiSipaz.