La Mojana

Map of Colombia with La Mojana highlighted
The 11 municipalities within La Mojana

La Mojana is a large area of wetlands in Colombia that functions as an inland river delta. It lies in the Momposina depression [es], and is fed by water from three rivers: the San Jorge, the Cauca, and the Magdalena. Administratively, it is divided between 11 municipalities from 4 departments. Distinct wet and dry seasons mean there are significant changes of water levels within La Mojana throughout the year, affecting the environment and human activities.

The area now known as La Mojana has likely been inhabited on and off for perhaps 4,000 years. The Zenú culture developed in the area and manipulated the waterways through means such as the construction of canals. The waterways continue to play an important role in modern times, shaping agriculture and livelihoods. Land use conflicts have emerged due to the shift of public land into private hands. Changes to the landscape have also affected the flow of water, damaging soil fertility while also increasing flood risk.

Today, the inhabitants of La Mojana are poorer than the Colombian average. A combination of challenges such as pollution, land use change, and climate change are exacerbating periods of drought and flooding. Restoration efforts aim to restore the ecological health of the area while allowing the continuation of farming.