Daily life in Jinotega, like much of Nicaragua, has become paralyzed by tranques. Literally, tranques mean “dams” or “obstacles” but they more closely resemble barricades and roadblocks these days in Nicaragua. Made of road pavers, metal signs, and anything else that prevent passage to pedestrians and vehicles, the tranques have brought ground transportation and local commerce to a standstill. Products and services cannot reach their markets, and many businesses, schools, and public institutions are shuttered. Tranques have also been the focal points for conflicts between pro-government groups and civilians.
Comunidad Connect staff in Jinotega explained to me that it is difficult to know who is responsible for each tranque, but there are two primary groups at odds with eachother: pro-government individuals brought in from outside the city and the opposing “April 19th Movement” comprised of local residents. These makeshift roadblocks are on practically every corner and some are inspecting pedestrians who attempt to pass. The tranques are one of the only means locals are using to pressure the government to bring justice, peace, and democracy back to Nicaragua. While the cause in noble, the effect throughout the community is troubling.
Improvised shelters adjacent to tranques house those who are not residents of Jinotega and hygiene and sanitation have become critical issues. Trash service stopped weeks ago and many residents have resigned to leaving their garbage in the street. There are no taxis available and residents prefer to buy staple goods at the local pulperia than risk the trip to a larger supermarket.
There are no tranques in Los Robles, but their impact is certainly tangible. Farm work has dried up and without money, food and medicine can be hard to come by. Families that depend on jobs in Jinotega can no longer count on that income either. To address these challenges, we have begun fundraising to finance local projects in homes of the elderly, single mothers, and families with special medical needs patients that not only improve their quality of life, but also create jobs for local masons and assistants. Our in-country team can navigate the tranques, but we need your help to reach the 100+ families eligible for projects.
Join us in this important work by making a donation and sharing this update with others. If you would like to learn more, please contact me at jon@comunidadconnect.org or 404-444-9147
-Jon Thompson
* The next installment to our series “Nicaragua Now” will spotlight how San Juan del Sur is managing the national crisis. We would love to know your perspective and invite you to contribute to the Nicaragua Now series by contacting me via email.