The Relationship of Community Empowerment in the Management of Rural Aqueducts Through the Sustainable Development Goal Sdg-6: A Case Study in Boyacá, Colombia

The Relationship of Community Empowerment in the Management of Rural Aqueducts Through the Sustainable Development Goal Sdg-6: A Case Study in Boyacá, Colombia | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Article The Relationship of Community Empowerment in the Management of Rural Aqueducts Through the Sustainable Development Goal Sdg-6: A Case Study in Boyacá, Colombia Ramiro Andres Colmenares-Cruz, Nidia Milena Moreno-López, Luz Angela Cuellar Rodríguez, and 1 more This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-6908510/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Objective The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship of community empowerment in two rural aqueducts in Boyacá - Colombia, considering actions established in Sustainable Development Goal 6 - Clean water and sanitation. The development of practices focused on the care and preservation of water resources in the rural sector is one of the main goals of the national government, therefore, promoting sustainable development in the territories, especially with regard to water care and its environmental and socioeconomic implications, as well as its articulation with international policies such as the SDGs. Materials and Methods The research was carried out with users of two rural water supply associations in Boyacá, Colombia, considering the community empowerment approach and its categories of having, knowing, wanting and being able to, and the goals of SDG 6 on clean water and sanitation. To this end, structured and semi-structured interviews were conducted with users and key actors associated with the two rural water supply associations, the study protocol was approved by the ethics committee of Pedagogical and Technological University of Colombia. Results and Discussion The results obtained revealed [synthesize the main results of the research]. In the discussion section, these results are contextualized in light of the theoretical framework, highlighting the implications and relationships identified. Possible discrepancies and limitations of the study are also considered in this section. Conclusions The results obtained reveal that there are low levels of community empowerment among the key actors and users of the two rural aqueducts, which shows a limited capacity for action regarding the communities' drinking water resources, which reveals future problems associated with the immediate reaction to phenomena such as climate change, generational change, decision-making and drinking water management. Earth and environmental sciences/Environmental sciences Earth and environmental sciences/Environmental social sciences Water Community Development Climate Crisis Livelihoods Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 INTRODUCTION Access to water has been, and continues to be, a priority in global public agendas for development, reflected in both the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the more recent Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially Goal 6: “Clean Water and Sanitation” [ 1 ], [ 2 ]. According to Soares, (2019) this concern arises due to the lack and difficulty of access experienced by several countries, including Latin American nations, since, according to the report of the Joint Monitoring Program of the United Nations Children's Fund and World Health Organization [ 3 ], 1900 million people in the world lack drinking water, which means that three out of ten people do not have access to water in their homes. In addition, according to a report by [ 4 ], conflicts in Latin America are not only due to the scarcity of this resource, but also to factors such as poor management, monopolization in access, and insufficient investment in infrastructure, which turns this conflict into a problem that affects various areas, including the political, social, environmental and cultural, thus hindering access. In this regard, the Superintendence of Public Utilities (2023), highlights that in the rural area of the department, there are 145,344 homes, 93,557 of which have a water supply (64.37%) and 51,786 do not have access to this service (35.63%). In addition, of the 1,936 rural aqueduct boards in the department, only 50% are legally incorporated in the Chamber of Commerce and only 19% of these boards have water quality monitoring, which represents a risk for the population [ 5 ]. Given the importance of community aqueducts in the access to water for the rural population, it is crucial to deepen the understanding of the role played by these organizations in the administration and governance of the resource. It is essential to recognize how, despite the many difficulties, these associative schemes of rural aqueducts have managed to remain operational and even adequately manage the water resource [ 5 ]. The definition of the term empowerment refers to the importance given to individuals, organizations, and communities to develop capabilities, competencies, and skills, ranging from developmental approaches in socio-psychological, natural, political, economic, and spiritual perspectives [ 6 ], enabling them to face the problems that concern them [ 7 ], which according to [ 8 ], this development is derived from inner strength and influences its environment, i.e., through external response. In view of the foregoing, from a more comprehensive and coherent understanding, empowerment is originated individually when it is composed of the improvement of technical capabilities and the setting of higher goals [ 9 ] and collectively when the purpose is to strengthen the decision-making capacity of communities [ 10 ]. According to [ 11 ], community empowerment is linked to community satisfaction. Therefore, water resources have been an essential natural element for the development of any civilization due to their relevance for human survival [ 12 ], and population growth is a limiting factor in obtaining water in rural areas of Colombia, since comprehensive water resource management (CWRM) takes place through the distribution of drinking water service, being fundamental for the general wellbeing of the community, which is achieved through the formal construction of the collective will expressed by community managers, developed by organized communities known as community aqueducts or aqueducts in rural areas; historically, these meet the demand and provision of the resource in relation to the domiciliary public service [ 13 ] [ 5 ]. Thus, it is important to implement interdisciplinary and technological strategies, to support human development and social sustainability, to establish community empowerment, from livelihoods, and contribute to sustainable development [ 14 ]. METHODOLOGY The methodological approach of this research is considered descriptive [ 15 ], given that it seeks to specify the properties, characteristics, and profiles of people, groups, communities, processes, objects, or any other phenomenon that is subjected to analysis. That is, they only intend to measure or collect information independently or jointly on the concepts or variables, the study protocol was approved by the ethics committee of Pedagogical and Technological University of Colombia. This study is recognized primarily as descriptive precisely because the intention is to describe the progress of SDG 6 and also to analyze community empowerment. The research method is recognized as qualitative, which according to [ 16 ] allows for a focused description and understanding of a situation or phenomenon, unlike quantitative research that aims to quantify, predict and control. In qualitative research, knowledge is constructed rather than discovered. It regularly tends to observe, describe and interpret what is found in the data, whether documented or not, and only has a meaning for this defined situation or context. In this case, research is conducted on the progress of the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs, specifically SDG 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation for Colombia, taking into account the goal established for the year 2030 and what has been proposed by the two rural aqueducts in the central region of Colombia [ 17 ]. This analysis will be conducted by collecting information from www.ods.dnp.gov.co . In addition, the community empowerment approach was developed taking into account the components of having, knowing, wanting, and being able from a sociological perspective of the users involved. For this reason, the participation of the users was generated by their own free will, considering that it addresses questions of their individual personality. In this regard, participation was as follows: ACUO: 86 users and CUPAMUY: 45 users. Thus, the questionnaire focused on the categories and subcategories presented in Table 1 following the methodology proposed by [ 17 ] ;[ 18 ];[ 19 ], which was based on structured interviews, which allowed obtaining an index for each subcategory in scales of 1: Strongly disagree, 2: Disagree, 3: Agree and 4: Totally agree. Table 1 Methodological components of the community empowerment approach. ITEM CATEGORY Subcategories Results : monitoring and evaluation. Have (power of) Increase in goods and services Incorporation of technologies Economic activities Family benefits Optimization of family time Knowledge and Skills Critical abilities Conflict resolution Local and national policies Ability to function as a community Capacity of choice Want (Inner Power) Self-esteem increase Mastering fears Security Implementation of family projects Reinforcement of values Power (Power within and power with) Organizational skills Administration skills Communication skills Expression skills Community integration skills Participation skills Decision-making skills Analytical skills Negotiation skills Note: Adapted according to [ 19 ] and [ 20 ]. In this sense, the information was systematized in order to establish a multivariate analysis cluster with heatmaps, which accounts for the behavior of each of the users that were part of the empowerment analysis, as a central axis to support the fulfillment of the SDG goals. To conduct this analysis, the dendrograms were taken into account in the correlation matrix, using Ward's distancing method to distinguish differences between the groups.The methodology of an article outlines the procedures employed to conduct the research, including the type of study, sample selection, data collection and analysis methods, ethical considerations, and limitations of the study. Its detailed and transparent description is essential to guarantee the replicability and reliability of the results, in addition to providing a solid basis for the interpretation and generalization of the findings. In this study confirming that informed consent was obtained from all subjects or their legal guardian, the same way; was conducted in accordance to relevant rules and guidelines and regulations. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS Community water management in rural areas Community water management has proven to be an effective and sustainable strategy to ensure equitable and secure access to water resources in rural environments. Throughout history, various indigenous and peasant communities have undertaken the commitment to manage their own water systems, recognizing the importance of getting users involved and protecting collective interests in the management of this vital resource [ 21 ]. In countries such as Colombia, where about 90% of water providers in rural areas are managed by the communities themselves, the effectiveness of this approach has been proven and has been the subject of national and international study and recognition [ 22 ]. In regions of the department of Boyacá, the need has been identified to strengthen the capacities of communities to manage their water systems efficiently and sustainably [ 23 ]. For such reason, research has underlined the importance of including local users in decision-making processes, highlighting community participation as a key factor to address specific challenges and ensure proper governance of water resources[ 24 ]. In this sense, it is paramount to recognize that significant challenges persist in rural communities in terms of water availability, rationing and even water shortages, which generates negative consequences for the quality of life of the population and their economic activities [ 23 ]. Although a considerable part of the water is used for agricultural activities, the greatest challenges are often linked to the supply of drinking water and its effects on the health of communities [ 25 ]. In this context, it is crucial to implement sustainable and adaptable strategies that promote community participation and empowerment, from a socio-demographic and cultural approach, in order to ensure informed decision making in the management and provision of water services in rural communities. Water governance, based on collaboration and dialogue between the different stakeholders involved, emerges as an essential mechanism to ensure equity, sustainability and preservation of this vital resource for life and community development [ 26 ]. Rural community strategies Globally, there is a growing acceptance of various community strategies aimed at mitigating the negative effects of human activities on water resources. These strategies, designed with a comprehensive vision, not only seek to address immediate challenges, but also to understand and consider the local history, as well as the complex political, geographic and cultural interactions of the environment they seek to transform [ 27 ]. In this sense, there is an urgent need for community intervention strategies to include stages that not only identify existing problems in rural communities, but also encourage the creation of experiences that lead to the discovery of sustainable and contextually relevant solutions. On the other hand, [ 28 ], highlight the importance of bringing scientific knowledge closer to the population as a powerful means of empowering citizens and providing them with the necessary resources to improve their immediate environment. In this context, the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation in Colombia has adopted five fundamental principles that guide the processes of Social Appropriation of Knowledge in the communities. These principles, rooted in a differential approach that promotes participation and dialogue among diverse communities, academic and productive sectors, and other relevant stakeholders, aim to strengthen the capacities of those who participate in these processes and take full advantage of the skills, needs and opportunities of each territory. It is essential to keep these principles in mind before initiating any community intervention activity. The recognition of the context, which implies the identification and interpretation of local realities, is the indispensable starting point for understanding the specific characteristics of the community, its interaction dynamics and emerging needs. The participation of all stakeholders, based on collaborative decision-making, negotiation and effective communication, is fundamental to ensure the construction of shared understandings and community empowerment [ 29 ]. The dialogue of knowledge and skills, as a means to exchange and discuss different perspectives and approaches, allows to recognize how valuable diversity is, and contributes to the mutual enrichment of the participants [ 30 ], and their transformation, as a result of the practical and reflective application of the knowledge and skills acquired, being crucial to generate significant and lasting changes in the community environment. For this reason, the social appropriation of knowledge represents an invaluable tool for promoting social transformation and building a more just and equitable future for all the inhabitants of a territory. Hence, these principles are expected to permeate all social appropriation of knowledge initiatives, regardless of the context or stakeholders involved, and to contribute to building more inclusive and resilient societies around the world. Rural empowerment Economic growth brings with it significant challenges for impoverished areas, which struggle with gaps in education, health and economic development, situations that persist as obstacles for the most disadvantaged communities around the world [ 31 ]. However, despite these adversities, processes of change have emerged at both the individual and community levels, carefully adapted to the context in which they operate [ 32 ]. These change efforts represent an ongoing response to the unique needs and challenges facing these communities, with a focus on improving key aspects such as education, health and economic development. A crucial aspect identified in these processes of change is the positive correlation between age, educational level, decision-making capacity, employment and poverty reduction. This finding highlights the fundamental role of education in the empowerment of women household leaders, which translates into stronger economic management, both in terms of physical and psychological capital, and in agricultural processes, thus contributing to household food security. The concept of empowerment has its roots in movements such as the African American movement and Paulo Freire's critical thinking theory, which emerged in the 1960s. The fundamental objective of these movements is to strengthen self-esteem, confidence and choice at both the individual and community levels, addressing social, cultural, economic and political aspects. This approach is considered the basis of the “power” to act with autonomy, through means and processes that facilitate both individual and collective decision-making, considering the different levels of power: over, from, with, and within [ 33 ]. Empowerment is mainly promoted in programs, projects and movements that seek to foster leadership through participation, the elimination of inequality, and equitable human treatment, with a special focus on the gender perspective [ 18 ]. It has been observed that empowerment is closely related to livelihoods, given that human capital benefits through both the psychological and the material evolution of people, at the individual, collective, and intergenerational levels [ 34 ], facilitating decision-making with equal capabilities, access to resources and opportunities, including financial, material, technical, human, technological, training, teaching, and leadership resources to develop democratic, dialogue, policy and conflict resolution skills. The empowerment process requires interdisciplinary strategies and technical support to the communities to be effective [ 30 ]. It is essential to focus on the human development of communities, emphasizing the importance of social sustainability over economic and environmental sustainability. Qualitative research on technical, social and cultural processes, including ancestral knowledge of the community and families, is crucial to contribute to the construction of empowerment processes at the governmental and economic level, with strong local leadership, and thus strengthen producers and their families [ 35 ]. This approach promotes a greater understanding of the specific needs and challenges faced by these communities and allows for the development of more effective strategies and policies to address them in a comprehensive and sustainable manner. The previously outlined context highlights the importance of addressing Livelihoods (L) through the promotion and validation of technological alternatives that stimulate production, taking into account both the capacities and limitations of rural actors, as well as their living conditions [ 36 ]. This approach requires participatory diagnoses to organize local communities to face the challenges of competitiveness and sustainability, in order to contribute in a comprehensive manner to the productive, social, economic and environmental spheres, seeking to achieve a territorial balance [ 37 ]. In this sense, empowerment is defined as the capacity to obtain resources and manage them effectively to improve individual wellbeing, while in the background, collectively, it becomes evident in the communities, as well as in their autonomous production activities. This process is closely linked to ongoing activities of education, training, access to land and technological information, which allows for the sustainable use of resources for productivity in their respective localities [ 38 ]. However, few programs have taken advantage of human potential by allowing the participation of the community in the planning, implementation and control of activities, taking into consideration their skills and the potential of their local environments in the social, cultural, environmental and financial spheres. In this scenario, the aim is to address the need raised by [ 38 ] of associating and designing regionalized management proposals, with effective technical assistance that provides support to producers in learning and leadership processes, especially highlighting the importance of the primary sector [ 40 ]. This aims to foster associativity and sustainable networks from families, promoting their dissemination at the local, regional and/or departmental level, given that associative processes represent work alternatives that enable diversity and productive evolution in rural communities and individual life projects. On the other hand, [ 41 ] indicate that communities experience a process of empowerment when their capacity for autonomy is not affected by external agents and they can participate, decide, negotiate, influence and control, counting on institutional allies that strengthen leadership. This gives them a leading role in strengthening their family and productive environments, thus overcoming the invisibility promoted by conventional agriculture. In this perspective, empowerment is addressed at both the individual and collective levels, [ 42 ] which entails the acquisition of power, control over one's own life and the ability to make decisions that facilitate access to material, intellectual and ideological resources. This process requires fostering self-esteem, facilitating education, guaranteeing access to information and rights, with the purpose of promoting autonomy and self-determination in individual life projects, while at the same time promoting fair and equitable social changes at the collective level [ 43 ]. This exhaustive analysis of bibliographic sources highlights the imperative need to link sustainable development with the human component, which allows to understand the specific dynamics of power relations that facilitate equitable and integral social participation, where the relevance of inner power, power of, and power with is highlighted, as well as the preservation of sociocultural identity, both at the individual level through the promotion of autonomy and self-determination, and at the collective level through the construction of a just and egalitarian society [ 44 ]. It is suggested that indicators be used to highlight the socio-cultural particularities and the agents of cooperation, as individuals and local communities evolve. Participation as an articulation mechanism for rural empowerment Rural areas in Colombia cover about 94% of the country, where 32% of the population lives, a percentage that increases to 40.72% in the specific case of the Department of Boyacá [ 45 ]. Given the above, the configuration of community organization and participation in rural environments is important, because it allows to generate direct social links expressed in collective dialogues, solving community problems according to their collective wisdom, which contributes to the sustainability of the community [ 46 ]. In this sense, rural communities communicate freely among themselves, making their decisions regarding community problems by groups of people, committees, teams and, in the case of rural aqueducts, associations of subscribers, thus enabling the governability of natural resources. In light of the above, proposals are focused on articulating the participation of young people in rural development, specifically in the activities of rural aqueducts, which allow them to associate voluntarily and improve their organizational capacities [ 47 ]. However, for [ 48 ], the intergenerational relay in rural areas plays an important leadership role, which allows favoring social transformation at the individual and collective levels, addressing skills and life projects that are established through financial, technical, human, technological, social, natural, and leadership resources, with regards to issues of agriculture and management of natural resources, from the understanding in matters of readiness for the future [ 49 ]. Local Sustainable Development Goals SDGs In Latin American and Caribbean countries, different governmental entities such as the International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC), the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO/WHO), the United Nations Children's Emergency Fund [ 3 ], the Organization of American States (OAS), have promoted the adoption of actions to restore and rebuild the water services provided by rural aqueducts to ensure the sustainability of their achievements with regards to the Sustainable Development Goals, that are essential for the proliferation of life. In the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals - SDGs to be achieved in the 2030 agenda, through the understanding of its 169 goals for the year 2030, grouped into 17 goals proposed by the United Nations in 2015 [ 50 ], allowing localities to seek to establish a connection between community empowerment and the SDGs, as an important contribution to the fight against inequality, hunger and poverty, as well as to the issue of climate change and environmental degradation [ 51 ]. According to [ 52 ], SDGs focus on addressing the global water crisis due to increased demand and increased pressure on water resources, so it takes relevance to cover the SDG 6 “Clean Water and Sanitation” study, which establishes the guidelines for governments to ensure compliance with the targets for their resilience [ 53 ]. However, water resources have always played a fundamental role in localities, mainly in the rural sector, since their availability and access have been linked to productive, domestic, economic and cultural activities; different scenarios have been developed to achieve this according to their administration and the capacity to care for them [ 54 ]. In Latin America and the Caribbean, about 61.7% of the population in rural areas does not benefit from quality drinking water services, and 43.4% do not have basic sanitation facilities; there is a lack of infrastructure and economic resources for water resource management purposes WRM in rural communities; the water resources, most of the time, come from groundwater, thus becoming an effective alternative to supply rural communities that are not connected to central water systems. Although Colombia has made significant progress in several SDGs during the last decades, there are still weaknesses in the indicators for their fulfillment [ 5 ], especially in those goals that are focused on ensuring access to water, its sustainable management, and sanitation for all, which is persistent in community development, livelihoods and communities to understand environmental sustainability. Target 6.1: Achieve universal and equitable access to safe drinking water at an affordable price for all. In rural areas of the country, low service coverage is observed in a significant number of municipalities (Fig. 1 ). Specifically, 406 municipalities have a rural coverage that does not exceed 30%, which is visually represented on the map with red tones and comprises 36.8% of the national total. In addition, there are 207 municipalities whose coverage is in the medium range, between 30% and 45%. In contrast, only 115 municipalities stand out for having remarkably high rural coverage, between 90% and 100%, representing 10.42% of all municipalities in the country. In addition, based on the data, the national average continuity index (CI) in 2022 was estimated at 22.48 hours per day, using a weighted average according to the number of subscribers in the different service areas. This value is very similar to that recorded in 2021, which was 22.46 hours per day. Target 6.2: Achieve access to adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene services for all, paying special attention to the needs of women and girls and people in vulnerable situations. According to the SDG progress reports in Colombia, water consumption by socioeconomic stratum reveals significant disparities in access to and quality of sanitation services, which has direct implications for the achievement of Goal 6.2 of the Sustainable Development Goals, which seeks to ensure adequate and equitable access to these services, with special attention to the needs of women, girls, and people in vulnerable situations. While the lower strata have high water consumption, this does not necessarily translate into access to quality sanitation and hygiene services, as low-income areas often lack adequate infrastructure. This disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, increasing the risk of disease and hindering access to safe sanitation facilities for women and girls. To meet Goal 6.2, it is necessary to strengthen sanitation infrastructure in these communities, implement subsidy and health education policies, and involve communities in service management to ensure truly equitable and sustainable access. Considering water consumption data by stratum, a significant relationship is observed between unequal access to basic services and health problems associated with the consumption of low-quality water in vulnerable communities. In this sense, [ 55 ] emphasize that communities in poverty have difficulty accessing safe drinking water and adequate sanitation, which translates into recurrent health problems, such as dysentery and diarrhea, due to water contamination. In the context of low strata with high water consumption, neither the quality nor security of the supply are guaranteed, which increases exposure to disease. This analysis underscores the urgent need for policies that not only expand water coverage, but also ensure drinking water standards, especially in rural areas and among groups in vulnerable situations [ 13 ]. The lack of adequate infrastructure in these areas reinforces socioeconomic and health inequalities, disproportionately affecting low-income communities and compromising the achievement of the SDGs. The coverage and continuity of drinking water services in rural areas of Colombia continue to face great challenges. According to data from the Unified Information System (SUI), the national average CI in 2022 stood at 22.48 hours per day, a value remarkably similar to that of the previous year (22.46 hours per day). This slight increase reflects limited progress in service continuity, especially in rural areas where access is reduced, and supply policies face structural difficulties. Despite the efforts and the development of public policies, as detailed by Moreno (2020), it is essential to strengthen community management and infrastructure in these areas to close the urban-rural coverage gap, which is especially urgent given that water continuity and quality are critical for the well-being of the rural population. Target 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating discharges and minimizing the release of chemicals and hazardous materials, halving the percentage of untreated wastewater, and significantly increasing recycling and safe reuse worldwide. The results presented in Fig. 2 reveal an uneven distribution of risk levels associated with access to drinking water in the different departments. The bar graph shows that in most departments, municipalities with no risk and low risk predominate, which shows a relative improvement in the infrastructure for sanitation and water quality. On the other hand, in the departments of Sucre, Boyacá, Cauca and Nariño, the high number of municipalities classified as “very high risk” is evident, which indicates serious water quality problems that put the health of their inhabitants at risk. On the other hand, the pie chart shows that, at the national level, 8.27% of the departments are at “very high risk”, 10.95% are at “high risk” and 10.12% are at medium risk, which represents a significant threat to public health in large regions of the country. These data highlight the urgent need for interventions in water and sanitation infrastructure, especially in the departments with the highest levels of risk. Considering the results, it is evident that Colombia faces great challenges in the access and sustainable management of drinking water, especially in rural areas. Although the country is rich in water resources, inefficient management and the lack of adequate infrastructure have generated a high proportion of municipalities at “high risk” and “sanitarily unviable” levels. According to the analysis of the Colombian rural sector presented, this situation is largely due to administrative fragmentation and a lack of effective coordination between state policies and the real needs of rural communities, because according to those highlighted by [ 56 ], community participation and a decentralized approach are key to improving the sustainability of water supply systems in these areas, so it is essential to address the need for investment policies aimed at sanitation infrastructure and water treatment, considering the particularities of each region. Target 6.4: Significantly increase the efficiency of water use in all sectors and ensure the sustainability of freshwater extraction and supply to address water scarcity. The results obtained in Fig. 3 , associated with the sectoral water demand, show that agriculture and post-harvest have the highest water demand compared to other sectors of the economy. This sector has the highest water demand, reaching approximately 13,984 million m³/year, of which a significant proportion returns to the system as return flow. Hydroelectricity, although it has a lower blue water footprint of 436.4 million m³/year, has the highest return flows, with 86,449.4 million m³/year, due to its high volume of non-consumptive use. In the domestic sector, there is a considerable loss of water of 642.7 million m³/year and discharges of 1,928.1 million m³/year, which represents a great challenge in wastewater management. On the other hand, the livestock and slaughterhouse sectors, industry and official services also show significant losses and discharges in relation to their total water demand, which underlines the need to implement efficiency and loss reduction strategies in these sectors. Consequently, the data allow us to reflect on the progress towards Goal 6.4 of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), which seeks to increase water use efficiency in all sectors and ensure the sustainability of freshwater extraction. The high volumes of water demand in sectors such as agriculture and hydroelectricity, together with the significant losses and discharges in the domestic sector, highlight the challenges to achieve efficient water use in Colombia [ 58 ]. The high blue water footprint in agriculture suggests the need for more sustainable practices and irrigation technologies that minimize consumption and maximize water productivity, while in the case of hydropower, although the sector returns large amounts of water, its impact on flows and availability of the resource in other areas deserves special attention, especially in contexts of water scarcity and competition for water [ 59 ]. In this regard, it has been recognized that the domestic, industrial, and livestock sectors, which have considerable losses and discharges, require policies that promote water reuse and recycling to reduce pressure on water resources, so it is essential to prioritize areas to improve water efficiency in the country and stresses the urgency of adopting strategies aligned with SDG Goal 6.4, which promote sustainability and resilience in water management in different economic sectors [ 60 ]. Target 6.6: Protect and restore water-related ecosystems, including mountains, forests, wetlands, rivers, aquifers, and lakes by 2023. Figure 4 presents the map of protected areas in Colombia, which includes areas administered by Colombia's National Natural Parks as well as by regional environmental authorities and private administrations. These areas, which include biosphere reserves, national and regional natural parks, forest reserves, integrated management districts and soil conservation areas, demonstrate the country's commitment to protecting key ecosystems for water resources, in compliance with Goal 6.6 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This goal seeks to protect and restore water-related ecosystems, including mountains, forests, wetlands, rivers, and aquifers. By conserving these areas, water regulation, watershed protection, and biodiversity preservation are ensured, which contributes to maintaining the balance of water resources and their availability for future generations. The map highlights the location and distribution of these areas throughout the country, from the Caribbean to the Amazon and the Pacific, reflecting a broad coverage of strategic ecosystems essential for Colombia's water sustainability. The presence of an extensive network of protected areas in Colombia, as shown in the map, represents a significant step towards meeting SDG Goal 6.6, which focuses on the protection and restoration of water ecosystems. However, this network faces several challenges that question its effectiveness for the country's water sustainability. Although the geographic coverage is broad, ranging from high mountain ecosystems to coastal and riverine areas, not all of these areas receive the same attention in terms of management, financing and continuous monitoring [ 61 ]. Many protected areas, especially in remote regions, are threatened by activities such as illegal mining, deforestation, and agricultural expansion, which weakens their capacity for water regulation and biodiversity conservation [ 62 ]. In addition, ecosystem fragmentation and lack of connectivity between protected areas can limit the effectiveness of these areas in terms of protecting the hydrological cycle [63]. To strengthen compliance with Goal 6.6, it is necessary not only to increase the number of protected areas, but also to implement strategies that integrate the management of these territories with the economic activities of local communities, promoting sustainable practices that reduce pressure on water resources, which should involve a vision of watershed management that considers the interdependence between ecosystems and human activities [ 64 ]. Likewise, cooperation between national, regional and local authorities, as well as support for privately managed areas, becomes essential to ensure the effectiveness of conservation policies, considering that although Colombia is making progress in the delimitation of protected areas and water sustainability as stated in Goal 6.6, comprehensive management is required that considers the challenges of ecological connectivity, external threats and the role of local communities in the preservation of these ecosystems [ 65 ]. Consistent with the above, progress towards meeting the SDG 6 goals in the framework of resource preservation and water resource management is essential not only to ensure access to safe and affordable water, but also to empower communities in the autonomous and sustainable management of water. From a livelihood perspective, the Have component, which represents the power to use goods and services, is key in transforming the relationship between communities and water [ 66 ]. Through the increase of goods and services related to access to water, the incorporation of low-cost technologies that optimize its use, and the promotion of sustainable economic activities around water resources, rural families achieve tangible benefits that improve their quality of life, especially focused on greater water security, the reduction of water collection and management times, and the generation of value through productive activities that depend directly on the resource [ 67 ]. In this sense, the development of capacities in rural aqueduct users in Boyacá, linked to the component Knowledge and Skills, allows community members to assume an active role in water governance through critical knowledge and the application of skills in resource management [68]. In this context, empowerment is based on training in conflict resolution related to water access, a deep understanding of local and national policies that affect water management, and the ability to act collectively in defense of community interests [ 69 ]. This knowledge translates into the ability of users to analyze water challenges, make informed decisions and, above all, act for the benefit of their own environment, since the construction of a capacity for choice allows individuals to strategically and consciously select practices that improve water sustainability in their communities. This critical dimension of knowledge strengthens the perception of rural communities in Boyacá as legitimate and relevant actors in the implementation of local water policies, aligned with SDG Goal 6.6, which requires protecting and restoring essential aquatic ecosystems [ 70 ];[ 71 ]. The component of wanting and being able, which represents both internal empowerment and collective power, becomes a transformative element in community water governance, through the strengthening of self-esteem, increased security and mastery of fears associated with the administration of such an essential resource as water; thus, rural aqueduct users develop a sense of confidence and belonging that allows them to undertake family and community projects with a vision of sustainability [ 72 ]. In addition, the development of organizational, administrative, communication and decision-making skills strengthens community cohesion and integration, creating a more robust social fabric capable of autonomously managing the aqueducts. This shared power, which includes skills for negotiation, expression and analysis, encourages active and conscious participation in the management of the resource, promoting inclusive governance that recognizes the value of the community in water management. Ultimately, this empowerment process strengthens the fulfillment of SDG 6 goals by creating a social structure that not only supports universal access to water, but also establishes a platform for sustainable self-management, community resilience, and the construction of human development in balance with water resources in Boyacá [ 73 ]. Consistent with the above, the following is evident: Boyacá Empowerment Boyacá– CUPAMUY The empowerment of users is reflected through skills and abilities that people possess, and that are linked to preferences and passions [ 8 ]. In this sense, Fig. 5 shows that the development of empowerment skills is highly variable, despite distinguishing patterns that group users into three large groups. In this sense, the heatmap consists of a color matrix with two dendrograms, an upper and a lateral one. The top dendrogram groups users according to the empowerment index, while the side dendrogram groups the empowerment subcategories. According to the Fig. 5 , the analysis of the lateral dendrogram reveals two major groupings of empowerment categories in rural aqueduct users, highlighting differentiated patterns in the perception of empowerment. The first group includes categories such as negotiation skills, decision making, organizational skills, communication, security, increased self-esteem, community integration, family projects, choice, national and local policies, optimization of family time and incorporation of technologies. This set of dimensions suggests an approach oriented to the development of personal and family skills, as well as participation in decision-making and organizational processes in the community context, emphasizing aspects of autonomy and adaptation to external changes. On the other hand, the second group comprises categories such as capacity for expression, family benefits, analytical skills, fear control, capacity for community action, conflict resolution, capacity for participation, reinforcement of values, critical skills, increase in goods and services, capacity for administration and economic activities. This group reflects a broader focus on community interaction, economic development, and social cohesion, suggesting that users value these skills and capabilities to contribute to collective well-being and community building. Taking into account the above, the development of skills and capacities related to rural empowerment are fundamental for the region's resources, especially in those regions where the capacities of the inhabitants are essential for territorial management. Thus, the operation of rural aqueducts, especially in the rural sector, requires actors who manifest their capacities in order to convene and be convened, especially for the management of natural resources [ 74 ]. In this sense, [ 75 ] state that the commitment of rural populations is the basis for empowerment, since the development of new techniques or the incorporation of technologies within rural production systems is successful when there is an interest in participation, leadership and competitiveness on the part of the inhabitants, which generates an impact mainly on human and social development. Likewise, the sustainable development goals have achieved synergies and antagonisms that are reflected in the progress made in the fulfillment of their goals, as evidenced by Kroll et al. (2019), who highlight the synergy between SDG 6 and SDG 11, since the different elements associated with water quality have a direct impact on sustainable cities and communities, given that, together with the economic flow, the dynamization and well-being of the territories can be achieved. Oicatá Empowerment Boyacá - ACUO In the case of the empowerment levels of the users of Oicatá, there is evidence of a greater distribution in relation to their level of participation and self-recognition of their skills. In this context, Fig. 6 shows that users are organized into two groups, a first group characterized by subcategories with intermediate to high indexes (color scale). The second group is subdivided into two groups, one with a greater diversity of behavior (indexes) in the subcategories, while the second subgroup is dominated by intermediate indexes (brown). Considering the above, Fig. 6 also evidences two groupings in the subcategories of empowerment. A cluster is made up of community integration skills, communication, organization, and negotiation skills, family benefits, fear control, local and national policies, optimization of family time and incorporation of technologies. In addition, a cluster has two subdivisions, the first is composed of the skills for participation, criticism, analysis, expression, increase of self-esteem, increase of goods and services and economic activities. Finally, the second subdivision is made up of the skills for administration, community action, choice, conflict resolution, security, achievement of family projects and reinforcement of values. Thus, the ACUO organization is comprised of users who have a greater diversity in their levels of empowerment, because according to [ 76 ], such progress depends on working conditions, educational level, and poverty rates, because even though there are significant gaps between the rural and urban sectors, there is a higher level of self-recognition in rural environments, especially due to their appreciation of their ability to cope with the adverse situations of everyday life and their attachment to work that requires greater physical effort. Likewise, different public and private organizations have carried out efforts in this municipality, especially in the development of activities that promote agroecology, so they recognize the importance of awakening the feeling of innovation, 3entrepreneurship and the vocation of leadership in their work in agriculture, management and change [ 45 ] & [ 5 ]; [ 72 ]). CONCLUSION Access to water is a global priority, reflected in the Millennium Development Goals and the Sustainable Development Goals, especially Goal 6 “Clean Water and Sanitation”. There are water access problems in several countries, including Latin American nations, due to lack and difficulty of access, poor management, monopolization of access, and insufficient investment in infrastructure. In the department of Boyacá, Colombia, there is a problem with access to water in rural areas, where a significant number of homes do not have access to water supply and there are deficiencies in monitoring water quality. Community aqueducts play a crucial role in access to water for the rural population, despite facing multiple difficulties. Individual and collective empowerment is important for the development of capacities, competencies and skills in water management, enabling communities to make decisions and improve their quality of life. The comprehensive management of water resources in rural areas of Colombia occurs through community aqueducts, which are key to meeting the demand and supply of the resource. It is essential to implement interdisciplinary and technological strategies to support human development, social sustainability and community empowerment in water management. Community-based water management is an effective and sustainable strategy for ensuring equitable and secure access to water resources in rural settings, with indigenous and peasant communities taking a crucial role in managing their own water systems. In Colombia, where most of the water providers in rural areas are managed by the communities themselves, this approach has proven to be effective and has been recognized nationally and internationally. Significant challenges persist in rural communities in terms of water availability and quality, which negatively impacts the quality of life and economic activities of the population. It is essential to implement sustainable and adaptable strategies that promote community participation and empowerment, from a socio-demographic and cultural approach, to ensure informed and equitable management of water services in rural communities. Water governance, based on collaboration and dialogue between the different stakeholders involved, is essential to ensure equity, sustainability and the preservation of this vital resource for community development. The social appropriation of knowledge, through principles such as recognition of the context, participation of all stakeholders, dialogue of knowledge and skills, transformation and critical reflection, is key to promoting social transformation and building a more just and equitable future in the territories. Rural empowerment is a fundamental process for improving the well-being of the most disadvantaged communities, addressing gaps in education, health and economic development through strategies adapted to the local context. The empowerment process requires interdisciplinary strategies and technical support to be effective, focusing on human development and social sustainability over economic and environmental sustainability. The empowerment of producers and their families in rural communities is achieved through the promotion of technological alternatives, the development of skills and resources, and collaboration among diverse stakeholder. Rural empowerment involves autonomy, participation, decision-making, influence and control by communities over their family and productive environments, overcoming the invisibility promoted by conventional agriculture. Collaboration between rural communities and academics, the dialogue between types of knowledge and the promotion of communication ethics are key to ensure the sustainability and success of empowerment processes. The participation of producers in the planning, implementation and control of activities, considering their skills and local potential, is fundamental for the success of empowerment programs. Rural empowerment seeks to address poverty, socio-environmental imbalance and food insecurity through empowerment, education, access to information and rights, promoting autonomy and self-determination at the individual and collective levels. Declarations Funding Pedagogical and Technological University of Colombia Permission is granted to us (Springer Nature Limited), to publish the image under a CC BY open access license. Permission must be granted to publish the image in all formats i.e. print and digital. Signed by the copyright holder. Author Contribution Colmenares, Moreno wrote the main manuscript text. Cuellar, Barrera reviewed the manuscript. Acknowledgement Acknowledgements Pedagógica y tecnológica de Colombia University. Data Availability The datasets generated and/or analysed during the current study are available in the [NAME]repository, [ https://expeditiorepositorio.utadeo.edu.co/handle/20.500.12010/36314 References Programa de las Naciones Unidas para el Desarrollo PNUD. Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible: Objetivo 6: Agua Limpia y Saneamiento. (2020). https://www.undp.org/es/sustainable-development-goals/agua-limpia-saneamiento Pérez, M. S., Pérez, I. S. & Navalpotro, J. A. S. 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Acueductos comunitarios, punto de partida para optimizar el suministro de agua potable. Revista de Ingeniería . 1 (49), 98–102. https://doi.org/10.16924/revinge.49.12 (2020). Superintendencia de Servicios Públicos. Informe nacional de cobertura de los servicios públicos de acueducto, alcantarillado y aseo. 62p. (2023). https://superservicios.gov.co/sites/default/files/inline-files/Informe-Nacional-de-coberturas-AAA-2022.pdf Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. 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06:42:28","extension":"png","order_by":51,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":73118,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"Onlinefloatimage9.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6908510/v1/7a9a3b2338aee7d929f085e2.png"},{"id":93004892,"identity":"ebb0a3dc-483e-46fd-9f61-5fb938fbbf3b","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-10-08 06:26:29","extension":"xml","order_by":52,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":193969,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"b38a9bdc4875405695b531442d66a4be1structuring.xml","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6908510/v1/137ce4deb30e2b0b30756eec.xml"},{"id":93004888,"identity":"3e704e8e-384f-4ff9-b327-1185640c041c","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-10-08 06:26:29","extension":"html","order_by":53,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":213074,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"earlyproof.html","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6908510/v1/0f24cdbd33b37a0888f6dfb4.html"},{"id":93004838,"identity":"775f3f79-4af7-49d1-a3e8-1769a607356f","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-10-08 06:26:27","extension":"png","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":565683,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eCoverage and continuity of drinking water service in the rural sector in Colombia - 2022.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSource: Superintendence of Public Utilities (2023) \u003ca href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/\"\u003ehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/\u003c/a\u003e. CC BY open access license.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"1.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6908510/v1/41df30a5035caa9cd2a73f5c.png"},{"id":93004844,"identity":"e6d17728-b6cc-427d-8103-e44b749b82e3","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-10-08 06:26:27","extension":"png","order_by":2,"title":"Figure 2","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":144501,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eDepartmental and national risk level for drinking water by 2022\u003cem\u003e.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSource: Superintendence of Public Utilities (2023).\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"2.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6908510/v1/fb1b722a9a8bbd877ed5874d.png"},{"id":93005219,"identity":"6faac803-dd9c-4c56-bff9-af2ea5528b3b","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-10-08 06:34:27","extension":"png","order_by":3,"title":"Figure 3","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":38301,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eSectoral water demand according to the different economic sectors of Colombia by 2022\u003cem\u003e.\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSource: Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies - IDEAM (2023) [57].\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"3.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6908510/v1/270045e72e31df26b9eaaf10.png"},{"id":93005220,"identity":"324bd26c-bdae-4133-8b6a-d24aaf7fa2e3","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-10-08 06:34:27","extension":"png","order_by":4,"title":"Figure 4","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":502969,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eMap of protected areas of Colombia 2022.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSource: IDEAM (2023) [57] \u003ca href=\"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/\"\u003ehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/\u003c/a\u003e. CC BY open access license\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"4.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6908510/v1/0f8c9f5f03f72514cecc482d.png"},{"id":93004840,"identity":"abf71311-18d5-4c8b-b05a-7af5a4949d92","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-10-08 06:26:27","extension":"png","order_by":5,"title":"Figure 5","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":76016,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eBootstrap of empowerment in CUPAMUY users in Boyacá according to Ward's method.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"5.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6908510/v1/55a886b05365a73954a9e645.png"},{"id":93006014,"identity":"20e4ee2e-39a3-456d-a67c-43f799b5843b","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-10-08 06:42:27","extension":"png","order_by":6,"title":"Figure 6","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":84046,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eBootstrap of empowerment in ACUO users in Oicatá according to Ward's method.\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"6.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6908510/v1/dff8dcf8c8aa19ba3d0b293d.png"},{"id":93036358,"identity":"d0c6b568-ec21-45d8-aec8-e9c3418fd77c","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-10-08 11:35:54","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":2399970,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6908510/v1/6a872089-ddc8-40bb-9f0c-966841dc6d57.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"\u003cp\u003eThe Relationship of Community Empowerment in the Management of Rural Aqueducts Through the Sustainable Development Goal Sdg-6: A Case Study in Boyacá, Colombia\u003c/p\u003e","fulltext":[{"header":"INTRODUCTION","content":"\u003cp\u003eAccess to water has been, and continues to be, a priority in global public agendas for development, reflected in both the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the more recent Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially Goal 6: \u0026ldquo;Clean Water and Sanitation\u0026rdquo; [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e], [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e]. According to Soares, (2019) this concern arises due to the lack and difficulty of access experienced by several countries, including Latin American nations, since, according to the report of the Joint Monitoring Program of the United Nations Children's Fund and World Health Organization [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e], 1900\u0026nbsp;million people in the world lack drinking water, which means that three out of ten people do not have access to water in their homes. In addition, according to a report by [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e], conflicts in Latin America are not only due to the scarcity of this resource, but also to factors such as poor management, monopolization in access, and insufficient investment in infrastructure, which turns this conflict into a problem that affects various areas, including the political, social, environmental and cultural, thus hindering access.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn this regard, the Superintendence of Public Utilities (2023), highlights that in the rural area of the department, there are 145,344 homes, 93,557 of which have a water supply (64.37%) and 51,786 do not have access to this service (35.63%). In addition, of the 1,936 rural aqueduct boards in the department, only 50% are legally incorporated in the Chamber of Commerce and only 19% of these boards have water quality monitoring, which represents a risk for the population [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGiven the importance of community aqueducts in the access to water for the rural population, it is crucial to deepen the understanding of the role played by these organizations in the administration and governance of the resource. It is essential to recognize how, despite the many difficulties, these associative schemes of rural aqueducts have managed to remain operational and even adequately manage the water resource [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe definition of the term empowerment refers to the importance given to individuals, organizations, and communities to develop capabilities, competencies, and skills, ranging from developmental approaches in socio-psychological, natural, political, economic, and spiritual perspectives [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e], enabling them to face the problems that concern them [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e], which according to [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e], this development is derived from inner strength and influences its environment, i.e., through external response.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn view of the foregoing, from a more comprehensive and coherent understanding, empowerment is originated individually when it is composed of the improvement of technical capabilities and the setting of higher goals [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e] and collectively when the purpose is to strengthen the decision-making capacity of communities [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e]. According to [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e], community empowerment is linked to community satisfaction.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTherefore, water resources have been an essential natural element for the development of any civilization due to their relevance for human survival [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e], and population growth is a limiting factor in obtaining water in rural areas of Colombia, since comprehensive water resource management (CWRM) takes place through the distribution of drinking water service, being fundamental for the general wellbeing of the community, which is achieved through the formal construction of the collective will expressed by community managers, developed by organized communities known as community aqueducts or aqueducts in rural areas; historically, these meet the demand and provision of the resource in relation to the domiciliary public service [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e] [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e]. Thus, it is important to implement interdisciplinary and technological strategies, to support human development and social sustainability, to establish community empowerment, from livelihoods, and contribute to sustainable development [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"METHODOLOGY","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe methodological approach of this research is considered descriptive [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e], given that it seeks to specify the properties, characteristics, and profiles of people, groups, communities, processes, objects, or any other phenomenon that is subjected to analysis. That is, they only intend to measure or collect information independently or jointly on the concepts or variables, the study protocol was approved by the ethics committee of Pedagogical and Technological University of Colombia.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis study is recognized primarily as descriptive precisely because the intention is to describe the progress of SDG 6 and also to analyze community empowerment. The research method is recognized as qualitative, which according to [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e] allows for a focused description and understanding of a situation or phenomenon, unlike quantitative research that aims to quantify, predict and control. In qualitative research, knowledge is constructed rather than discovered. It regularly tends to observe, describe and interpret what is found in the data, whether documented or not, and only has a meaning for this defined situation or context. In this case, research is conducted on the progress of the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs, specifically SDG 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation for Colombia, taking into account the goal established for the year 2030 and what has been proposed by the two rural aqueducts in the central region of Colombia [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e]. This analysis will be conducted by collecting information from \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ewww.ods.dnp.gov.co\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"http://www.ods.dnp.gov.co\" targettype=\"URL\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn addition, the community empowerment approach was developed taking into account the components of having, knowing, wanting, and being able from a sociological perspective of the users involved. For this reason, the participation of the users was generated by their own free will, considering that it addresses questions of their individual personality. In this regard, participation was as follows: ACUO: 86 users and CUPAMUY: 45 users. Thus, the questionnaire focused on the categories and subcategories presented in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e following the methodology proposed by [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e] ;[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e];[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e], which was based on structured interviews, which allowed obtaining an index for each subcategory in scales of 1: Strongly disagree, 2: Disagree, 3: Agree and 4: Totally agree.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMethodological components of the community empowerment approach.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"3\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eITEM\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCATEGORY\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSubcategories\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"23\" rowspan=\"24\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eResults\u003c/b\u003e: monitoring and evaluation.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHave (power of)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eIncrease in goods and services\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eIncorporation of technologies\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eEconomic activities\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eFamily benefits\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eOptimization of family time\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eKnowledge and Skills\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCritical abilities\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eConflict resolution\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eLocal and national policies\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAbility to function as a community\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCapacity of choice\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"4\" rowspan=\"5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWant (Inner Power)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSelf-esteem increase\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMastering fears\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSecurity\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eImplementation of family projects\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eReinforcement of values\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"8\" rowspan=\"9\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePower (Power within and power with)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eOrganizational skills\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAdministration skills\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCommunication skills\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eExpression skills\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCommunity integration skills\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eParticipation skills\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDecision-making skills\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAnalytical skills\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNegotiation skills\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNote: Adapted according to [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e] and [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn this sense, the information was systematized in order to establish a multivariate analysis cluster with heatmaps, which accounts for the behavior of each of the users that were part of the empowerment analysis, as a central axis to support the fulfillment of the SDG goals. To conduct this analysis, the dendrograms were taken into account in the correlation matrix, using Ward's distancing method to distinguish differences between the groups.The methodology of an article outlines the procedures employed to conduct the research, including the type of study, sample selection, data collection and analysis methods, ethical considerations, and limitations of the study. Its detailed and transparent description is essential to guarantee the replicability and reliability of the results, in addition to providing a solid basis for the interpretation and generalization of the findings.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn this study confirming that informed consent was obtained from all subjects or their legal guardian, the same way; was conducted in accordance to relevant rules and guidelines and regulations.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommunity water management in rural areas\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommunity water management has proven to be an effective and sustainable strategy to ensure equitable and secure access to water resources in rural environments. Throughout history, various indigenous and peasant communities have undertaken the commitment to manage their own water systems, recognizing the importance of getting users involved and protecting collective interests in the management of this vital resource [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e21\u003c/span\u003e]. In countries such as Colombia, where about 90% of water providers in rural areas are managed by the communities themselves, the effectiveness of this approach has been proven and has been the subject of national and international study and recognition [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e22\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn regions of the department of Boyac\u0026aacute;, the need has been identified to strengthen the capacities of communities to manage their water systems efficiently and sustainably [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e23\u003c/span\u003e]. For such reason, research has underlined the importance of including local users in decision-making processes, highlighting community participation as a key factor to address specific challenges and ensure proper governance of water resources[\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e24\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this sense, it is paramount to recognize that significant challenges persist in rural communities in terms of water availability, rationing and even water shortages, which generates negative consequences for the quality of life of the population and their economic activities [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e23\u003c/span\u003e]. Although a considerable part of the water is used for agricultural activities, the greatest challenges are often linked to the supply of drinking water and its effects on the health of communities [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e25\u003c/span\u003e]. In this context, it is crucial to implement sustainable and adaptable strategies that promote community participation and empowerment, from a socio-demographic and cultural approach, in order to ensure informed decision making in the management and provision of water services in rural communities. Water governance, based on collaboration and dialogue between the different stakeholders involved, emerges as an essential mechanism to ensure equity, sustainability and preservation of this vital resource for life and community development [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e26\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRural community strategies\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGlobally, there is a growing acceptance of various community strategies aimed at mitigating the negative effects of human activities on water resources. These strategies, designed with a comprehensive vision, not only seek to address immediate challenges, but also to understand and consider the local history, as well as the complex political, geographic and cultural interactions of the environment they seek to transform [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e27\u003c/span\u003e]. In this sense, there is an urgent need for community intervention strategies to include stages that not only identify existing problems in rural communities, but also encourage the creation of experiences that lead to the discovery of sustainable and contextually relevant solutions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the other hand, [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e28\u003c/span\u003e], highlight the importance of bringing scientific knowledge closer to the population as a powerful means of empowering citizens and providing them with the necessary resources to improve their immediate environment. In this context, the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation in Colombia has adopted five fundamental principles that guide the processes of Social Appropriation of Knowledge in the communities. These principles, rooted in a differential approach that promotes participation and dialogue among diverse communities, academic and productive sectors, and other relevant stakeholders, aim to strengthen the capacities of those who participate in these processes and take full advantage of the skills, needs and opportunities of each territory.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is essential to keep these principles in mind before initiating any community intervention activity. The recognition of the context, which implies the identification and interpretation of local realities, is the indispensable starting point for understanding the specific characteristics of the community, its interaction dynamics and emerging needs. The participation of all stakeholders, based on collaborative decision-making, negotiation and effective communication, is fundamental to ensure the construction of shared understandings and community empowerment [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e29\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe dialogue of knowledge and skills, as a means to exchange and discuss different perspectives and approaches, allows to recognize how valuable diversity is, and contributes to the mutual enrichment of the participants [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e30\u003c/span\u003e], and their transformation, as a result of the practical and reflective application of the knowledge and skills acquired, being crucial to generate significant and lasting changes in the community environment.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor this reason, the social appropriation of knowledge represents an invaluable tool for promoting social transformation and building a more just and equitable future for all the inhabitants of a territory. Hence, these principles are expected to permeate all social appropriation of knowledge initiatives, regardless of the context or stakeholders involved, and to contribute to building more inclusive and resilient societies around the world.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRural empowerment\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEconomic growth brings with it significant challenges for impoverished areas, which struggle with gaps in education, health and economic development, situations that persist as obstacles for the most disadvantaged communities around the world [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e31\u003c/span\u003e]. However, despite these adversities, processes of change have emerged at both the individual and community levels, carefully adapted to the context in which they operate [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e32\u003c/span\u003e]. These change efforts represent an ongoing response to the unique needs and challenges facing these communities, with a focus on improving key aspects such as education, health and economic development.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA crucial aspect identified in these processes of change is the positive correlation between age, educational level, decision-making capacity, employment and poverty reduction. This finding highlights the fundamental role of education in the empowerment of women household leaders, which translates into stronger economic management, both in terms of physical and psychological capital, and in agricultural processes, thus contributing to household food security.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe concept of empowerment has its roots in movements such as the African American movement and Paulo Freire\u0026apos;s critical thinking theory, which emerged in the 1960s. The fundamental objective of these movements is to strengthen self-esteem, confidence and choice at both the individual and community levels, addressing social, cultural, economic and political aspects. This approach is considered the basis of the \u0026ldquo;power\u0026rdquo; to act with autonomy, through means and processes that facilitate both individual and collective decision-making, considering the different levels of power: over, from, with, and within [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e33\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEmpowerment is mainly promoted in programs, projects and movements that seek to foster leadership through participation, the elimination of inequality, and equitable human treatment, with a special focus on the gender perspective [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e]. It has been observed that empowerment is closely related to livelihoods, given that human capital benefits through both the psychological and the material evolution of people, at the individual, collective, and intergenerational levels [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e34\u003c/span\u003e], facilitating decision-making with equal capabilities, access to resources and opportunities, including financial, material, technical, human, technological, training, teaching, and leadership resources to develop democratic, dialogue, policy and conflict resolution skills.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe empowerment process requires interdisciplinary strategies and technical support to the communities to be effective [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e30\u003c/span\u003e]. It is essential to focus on the human development of communities, emphasizing the importance of social sustainability over economic and environmental sustainability. Qualitative research on technical, social and cultural processes, including ancestral knowledge of the community and families, is crucial to contribute to the construction of empowerment processes at the governmental and economic level, with strong local leadership, and thus strengthen producers and their families [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e35\u003c/span\u003e]. This approach promotes a greater understanding of the specific needs and challenges faced by these communities and allows for the development of more effective strategies and policies to address them in a comprehensive and sustainable manner.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe previously outlined context highlights the importance of addressing Livelihoods (L) through the promotion and validation of technological alternatives that stimulate production, taking into account both the capacities and limitations of rural actors, as well as their living conditions [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e36\u003c/span\u003e]. This approach requires participatory diagnoses to organize local communities to face the challenges of competitiveness and sustainability, in order to contribute in a comprehensive manner to the productive, social, economic and environmental spheres, seeking to achieve a territorial balance [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e37\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this sense, empowerment is defined as the capacity to obtain resources and manage them effectively to improve individual wellbeing, while in the background, collectively, it becomes evident in the communities, as well as in their autonomous production activities. This process is closely linked to ongoing activities of education, training, access to land and technological information, which allows for the sustainable use of resources for productivity in their respective localities [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e38\u003c/span\u003e]. However, few programs have taken advantage of human potential by allowing the participation of the community in the planning, implementation and control of activities, taking into consideration their skills and the potential of their local environments in the social, cultural, environmental and financial spheres.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this scenario, the aim is to address the need raised by [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e38\u003c/span\u003e] of associating and designing regionalized management proposals, with effective technical assistance that provides support to producers in learning and leadership processes, especially highlighting the importance of the primary sector [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e40\u003c/span\u003e]. This aims to foster associativity and sustainable networks from families, promoting their dissemination at the local, regional and/or departmental level, given that associative processes represent work alternatives that enable diversity and productive evolution in rural communities and individual life projects.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the other hand, [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e41\u003c/span\u003e] indicate that communities experience a process of empowerment when their capacity for autonomy is not affected by external agents and they can participate, decide, negotiate, influence and control, counting on institutional allies that strengthen leadership. This gives them a leading role in strengthening their family and productive environments, thus overcoming the invisibility promoted by conventional agriculture.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this perspective, empowerment is addressed at both the individual and collective levels, [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e42\u003c/span\u003e] which entails the acquisition of power, control over one\u0026apos;s own life and the ability to make decisions that facilitate access to material, intellectual and ideological resources. This process requires fostering self-esteem, facilitating education, guaranteeing access to information and rights, with the purpose of promoting autonomy and self-determination in individual life projects, while at the same time promoting fair and equitable social changes at the collective level [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e43\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis exhaustive analysis of bibliographic sources highlights the imperative need to link sustainable development with the human component, which allows to understand the specific dynamics of power relations that facilitate equitable and integral social participation, where the relevance of inner power, power of, and power with is highlighted, as well as the preservation of sociocultural identity, both at the individual level through the promotion of autonomy and self-determination, and at the collective level through the construction of a just and egalitarian society [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e44\u003c/span\u003e]. It is suggested that indicators be used to highlight the socio-cultural particularities and the agents of cooperation, as individuals and local communities evolve.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eParticipation as an articulation mechanism for rural empowerment\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRural areas in Colombia cover about 94% of the country, where 32% of the population lives, a percentage that increases to 40.72% in the specific case of the Department of Boyac\u0026aacute; [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e45\u003c/span\u003e]. Given the above, the configuration of community organization and participation in rural environments is important, because it allows to generate direct social links expressed in collective dialogues, solving community problems according to their collective wisdom, which contributes to the sustainability of the community [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e46\u003c/span\u003e]. In this sense, rural communities communicate freely among themselves, making their decisions regarding community problems by groups of people, committees, teams and, in the case of rural aqueducts, associations of subscribers, thus enabling the governability of natural resources.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn light of the above, proposals are focused on articulating the participation of young people in rural development, specifically in the activities of rural aqueducts, which allow them to associate voluntarily and improve their organizational capacities [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e47\u003c/span\u003e]. However, for [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e48\u003c/span\u003e], the intergenerational relay in rural areas plays an important leadership role, which allows favoring social transformation at the individual and collective levels, addressing skills and life projects that are established through financial, technical, human, technological, social, natural, and leadership resources, with regards to issues of agriculture and management of natural resources, from the understanding in matters of readiness for the future [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e49\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLocal Sustainable Development Goals SDGs\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Latin American and Caribbean countries, different governmental entities such as the International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC), the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO/WHO), the United Nations Children\u0026apos;s Emergency Fund [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e], the Organization of American States (OAS), have promoted the adoption of actions to restore and rebuild the water services provided by rural aqueducts to ensure the sustainability of their achievements with regards to the Sustainable Development Goals, that are essential for the proliferation of life.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals - SDGs to be achieved in the 2030 agenda, through the understanding of its 169 goals for the year 2030, grouped into 17 goals proposed by the United Nations in 2015 [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e50\u003c/span\u003e], allowing localities to seek to establish a connection between community empowerment and the SDGs, as an important contribution to the fight against inequality, hunger and poverty, as well as to the issue of climate change and environmental degradation [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e51\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e52\u003c/span\u003e], SDGs focus on addressing the global water crisis due to increased demand and increased pressure on water resources, so it takes relevance to cover the SDG 6 \u0026ldquo;Clean Water and Sanitation\u0026rdquo; study, which establishes the guidelines for governments to ensure compliance with the targets for their resilience [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e53\u003c/span\u003e]. However, water resources have always played a fundamental role in localities, mainly in the rural sector, since their availability and access have been linked to productive, domestic, economic and cultural activities; different scenarios have been developed to achieve this according to their administration and the capacity to care for them [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e54\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Latin America and the Caribbean, about 61.7% of the population in rural areas does not benefit from quality drinking water services, and 43.4% do not have basic sanitation facilities; there is a lack of infrastructure and economic resources for water resource management purposes WRM in rural communities; the water resources, most of the time, come from groundwater, thus becoming an effective alternative to supply rural communities that are not connected to central water systems. Although Colombia has made significant progress in several SDGs during the last decades, there are still weaknesses in the indicators for their fulfillment [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e], especially in those goals that are focused on ensuring access to water, its sustainable management, and sanitation for all, which is persistent in community development, livelihoods and communities to understand environmental sustainability.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTarget 6.1: Achieve universal and equitable access to safe drinking water at an affordable price for all.\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn rural areas of the country, low service coverage is observed in a significant number of municipalities (Fig. \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e). Specifically, 406 municipalities have a rural coverage that does not exceed 30%, which is visually represented on the map with red tones and comprises 36.8% of the national total. In addition, there are 207 municipalities whose coverage is in the medium range, between 30% and 45%. In contrast, only 115 municipalities stand out for having remarkably high rural coverage, between 90% and 100%, representing 10.42% of all municipalities in the country. In addition, based on the data, the national average continuity index (CI) in 2022 was estimated at 22.48 hours per day, using a weighted average according to the number of subscribers in the different service areas. This value is very similar to that recorded in 2021, which was 22.46 hours per day.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTarget 6.2: Achieve access to adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene services for all, paying special attention to the needs of women and girls and people in vulnerable situations.\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to the SDG progress reports in Colombia, water consumption by socioeconomic stratum reveals significant disparities in access to and quality of sanitation services, which has direct implications for the achievement of Goal 6.2 of the Sustainable Development Goals, which seeks to ensure adequate and equitable access to these services, with special attention to the needs of women, girls, and people in vulnerable situations. While the lower strata have high water consumption, this does not necessarily translate into access to quality sanitation and hygiene services, as low-income areas often lack adequate infrastructure. This disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, increasing the risk of disease and hindering access to safe sanitation facilities for women and girls. To meet Goal 6.2, it is necessary to strengthen sanitation infrastructure in these communities, implement subsidy and health education policies, and involve communities in service management to ensure truly equitable and sustainable access.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsidering water consumption data by stratum, a significant relationship is observed between unequal access to basic services and health problems associated with the consumption of low-quality water in vulnerable communities. In this sense, [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e55\u003c/span\u003e] emphasize that communities in poverty have difficulty accessing safe drinking water and adequate sanitation, which translates into recurrent health problems, such as dysentery and diarrhea, due to water contamination. In the context of low strata with high water consumption, neither the quality nor security of the supply are guaranteed, which increases exposure to disease. This analysis underscores the urgent need for policies that not only expand water coverage, but also ensure drinking water standards, especially in rural areas and among groups in vulnerable situations [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e]. The lack of adequate infrastructure in these areas reinforces socioeconomic and health inequalities, disproportionately affecting low-income communities and compromising the achievement of the SDGs.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe coverage and continuity of drinking water services in rural areas of Colombia continue to face great challenges. According to data from the Unified Information System (SUI), the national average CI in 2022 stood at 22.48 hours per day, a value remarkably similar to that of the previous year (22.46 hours per day). This slight increase reflects limited progress in service continuity, especially in rural areas where access is reduced, and supply policies face structural difficulties. Despite the efforts and the development of public policies, as detailed by Moreno (2020), it is essential to strengthen community management and infrastructure in these areas to close the urban-rural coverage gap, which is especially urgent given that water continuity and quality are critical for the well-being of the rural population.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTarget 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating discharges and minimizing the release of chemicals and hazardous materials, halving the percentage of untreated wastewater, and significantly increasing recycling and safe reuse worldwide.\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe results presented in Fig. \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e reveal an uneven distribution of risk levels associated with access to drinking water in the different departments. The bar graph shows that in most departments, municipalities with no risk and low risk predominate, which shows a relative improvement in the infrastructure for sanitation and water quality. On the other hand, in the departments of Sucre, Boyac\u0026aacute;, Cauca and Nari\u0026ntilde;o, the high number of municipalities classified as \u0026ldquo;very high risk\u0026rdquo; is evident, which indicates serious water quality problems that put the health of their inhabitants at risk. On the other hand, the pie chart shows that, at the national level, 8.27% of the departments are at \u0026ldquo;very high risk\u0026rdquo;, 10.95% are at \u0026ldquo;high risk\u0026rdquo; and 10.12% are at medium risk, which represents a significant threat to public health in large regions of the country. These data highlight the urgent need for interventions in water and sanitation infrastructure, especially in the departments with the highest levels of risk.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsidering the results, it is evident that Colombia faces great challenges in the access and sustainable management of drinking water, especially in rural areas. Although the country is rich in water resources, inefficient management and the lack of adequate infrastructure have generated a high proportion of municipalities at \u0026ldquo;high risk\u0026rdquo; and \u0026ldquo;sanitarily unviable\u0026rdquo; levels. According to the analysis of the Colombian rural sector presented, this situation is largely due to administrative fragmentation and a lack of effective coordination between state policies and the real needs of rural communities, because according to those highlighted by [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e56\u003c/span\u003e], community participation and a decentralized approach are key to improving the sustainability of water supply systems in these areas, so it is essential to address the need for investment policies aimed at sanitation infrastructure and water treatment, considering the particularities of each region.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTarget 6.4: Significantly increase the efficiency of water use in all sectors and ensure the sustainability of freshwater extraction and supply to address water scarcity.\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe results obtained in Fig. \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e, associated with the sectoral water demand, show that agriculture and post-harvest have the highest water demand compared to other sectors of the economy. This sector has the highest water demand, reaching approximately 13,984 million m\u0026sup3;/year, of which a significant proportion returns to the system as return flow. Hydroelectricity, although it has a lower blue water footprint of 436.4 million m\u0026sup3;/year, has the highest return flows, with 86,449.4 million m\u0026sup3;/year, due to its high volume of non-consumptive use. In the domestic sector, there is a considerable loss of water of 642.7 million m\u0026sup3;/year and discharges of 1,928.1 million m\u0026sup3;/year, which represents a great challenge in wastewater management. On the other hand, the livestock and slaughterhouse sectors, industry and official services also show significant losses and discharges in relation to their total water demand, which underlines the need to implement efficiency and loss reduction strategies in these sectors.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsequently, the data allow us to reflect on the progress towards Goal 6.4 of the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG), which seeks to increase water use efficiency in all sectors and ensure the sustainability of freshwater extraction. The high volumes of water demand in sectors such as agriculture and hydroelectricity, together with the significant losses and discharges in the domestic sector, highlight the challenges to achieve efficient water use in Colombia [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e58\u003c/span\u003e]. The high blue water footprint in agriculture suggests the need for more sustainable practices and irrigation technologies that minimize consumption and maximize water productivity, while in the case of hydropower, although the sector returns large amounts of water, its impact on flows and availability of the resource in other areas deserves special attention, especially in contexts of water scarcity and competition for water [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e59\u003c/span\u003e]. In this regard, it has been recognized that the domestic, industrial, and livestock sectors, which have considerable losses and discharges, require policies that promote water reuse and recycling to reduce pressure on water resources, so it is essential to prioritize areas to improve water efficiency in the country and stresses the urgency of adopting strategies aligned with SDG Goal 6.4, which promote sustainability and resilience in water management in different economic sectors [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e60\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTarget 6.6: Protect and restore water-related ecosystems, including mountains, forests, wetlands, rivers, aquifers, and lakes by 2023.\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFigure \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e presents the map of protected areas in Colombia, which includes areas administered by Colombia\u0026apos;s National Natural Parks as well as by regional environmental authorities and private administrations. These areas, which include biosphere reserves, national and regional natural parks, forest reserves, integrated management districts and soil conservation areas, demonstrate the country\u0026apos;s commitment to protecting key ecosystems for water resources, in compliance with Goal 6.6 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis goal seeks to protect and restore water-related ecosystems, including mountains, forests, wetlands, rivers, and aquifers. By conserving these areas, water regulation, watershed protection, and biodiversity preservation are ensured, which contributes to maintaining the balance of water resources and their availability for future generations. The map highlights the location and distribution of these areas throughout the country, from the Caribbean to the Amazon and the Pacific, reflecting a broad coverage of strategic ecosystems essential for Colombia\u0026apos;s water sustainability.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe presence of an extensive network of protected areas in Colombia, as shown in the map, represents a significant step towards meeting SDG Goal 6.6, which focuses on the protection and restoration of water ecosystems. However, this network faces several challenges that question its effectiveness for the country\u0026apos;s water sustainability. Although the geographic coverage is broad, ranging from high mountain ecosystems to coastal and riverine areas, not all of these areas receive the same attention in terms of management, financing and continuous monitoring [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e61\u003c/span\u003e]. Many protected areas, especially in remote regions, are threatened by activities such as illegal mining, deforestation, and agricultural expansion, which weakens their capacity for water regulation and biodiversity conservation [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e62\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition, ecosystem fragmentation and lack of connectivity between protected areas can limit the effectiveness of these areas in terms of protecting the hydrological cycle [63]. To strengthen compliance with Goal 6.6, it is necessary not only to increase the number of protected areas, but also to implement strategies that integrate the management of these territories with the economic activities of local communities, promoting sustainable practices that reduce pressure on water resources, which should involve a vision of watershed management that considers the interdependence between ecosystems and human activities [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e64\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLikewise, cooperation between national, regional and local authorities, as well as support for privately managed areas, becomes essential to ensure the effectiveness of conservation policies, considering that although Colombia is making progress in the delimitation of protected areas and water sustainability as stated in Goal 6.6, comprehensive management is required that considers the challenges of ecological connectivity, external threats and the role of local communities in the preservation of these ecosystems [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e65\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsistent with the above, progress towards meeting the SDG 6 goals in the framework of resource preservation and water resource management is essential not only to ensure access to safe and affordable water, but also to empower communities in the autonomous and sustainable management of water. From a livelihood perspective, the Have component, which represents the power to use goods and services, is key in transforming the relationship between communities and water [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e66\u003c/span\u003e]. Through the increase of goods and services related to access to water, the incorporation of low-cost technologies that optimize its use, and the promotion of sustainable economic activities around water resources, rural families achieve tangible benefits that improve their quality of life, especially focused on greater water security, the reduction of water collection and management times, and the generation of value through productive activities that depend directly on the resource [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e67\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this sense, the development of capacities in rural aqueduct users in Boyac\u0026aacute;, linked to the component Knowledge and Skills, allows community members to assume an active role in water governance through critical knowledge and the application of skills in resource management [68]. In this context, empowerment is based on training in conflict resolution related to water access, a deep understanding of local and national policies that affect water management, and the ability to act collectively in defense of community interests [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e69\u003c/span\u003e]. This knowledge translates into the ability of users to analyze water challenges, make informed decisions and, above all, act for the benefit of their own environment, since the construction of a capacity for choice allows individuals to strategically and consciously select practices that improve water sustainability in their communities. This critical dimension of knowledge strengthens the perception of rural communities in Boyac\u0026aacute; as legitimate and relevant actors in the implementation of local water policies, aligned with SDG Goal 6.6, which requires protecting and restoring essential aquatic ecosystems [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e70\u003c/span\u003e];[\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e71\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe component of wanting and being able, which represents both internal empowerment and collective power, becomes a transformative element in community water governance, through the strengthening of self-esteem, increased security and mastery of fears associated with the administration of such an essential resource as water; thus, rural aqueduct users develop a sense of confidence and belonging that allows them to undertake family and community projects with a vision of sustainability [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e72\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn addition, the development of organizational, administrative, communication and decision-making skills strengthens community cohesion and integration, creating a more robust social fabric capable of autonomously managing the aqueducts. This shared power, which includes skills for negotiation, expression and analysis, encourages active and conscious participation in the management of the resource, promoting inclusive governance that recognizes the value of the community in water management. Ultimately, this empowerment process strengthens the fulfillment of SDG 6 goals by creating a social structure that not only supports universal access to water, but also establishes a platform for sustainable self-management, community resilience, and the construction of human development in balance with water resources in Boyac\u0026aacute; [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e73\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsistent with the above, the following is evident:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBoyac\u0026aacute; Empowerment Boyac\u0026aacute;\u0026ndash; CUPAMUY\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe empowerment of users is reflected through skills and abilities that people possess, and that are linked to preferences and passions [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e]. In this sense, Fig. \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e shows that the development of empowerment skills is highly variable, despite distinguishing patterns that group users into three large groups. In this sense, the heatmap consists of a color matrix with two dendrograms, an upper and a lateral one. The top dendrogram groups users according to the empowerment index, while the side dendrogram groups the empowerment subcategories.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to the Fig. \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e, the analysis of the lateral dendrogram reveals two major groupings of empowerment categories in rural aqueduct users, highlighting differentiated patterns in the perception of empowerment. The first group includes categories such as negotiation skills, decision making, organizational skills, communication, security, increased self-esteem, community integration, family projects, choice, national and local policies, optimization of family time and incorporation of technologies. This set of dimensions suggests an approach oriented to the development of personal and family skills, as well as participation in decision-making and organizational processes in the community context, emphasizing aspects of autonomy and adaptation to external changes.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the other hand, the second group comprises categories such as capacity for expression, family benefits, analytical skills, fear control, capacity for community action, conflict resolution, capacity for participation, reinforcement of values, critical skills, increase in goods and services, capacity for administration and economic activities. This group reflects a broader focus on community interaction, economic development, and social cohesion, suggesting that users value these skills and capabilities to contribute to collective well-being and community building.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTaking into account the above, the development of skills and capacities related to rural empowerment are fundamental for the region\u0026apos;s resources, especially in those regions where the capacities of the inhabitants are essential for territorial management. Thus, the operation of rural aqueducts, especially in the rural sector, requires actors who manifest their capacities in order to convene and be convened, especially for the management of natural resources [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e74\u003c/span\u003e]. In this sense, [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e75\u003c/span\u003e] state that the commitment of rural populations is the basis for empowerment, since the development of new techniques or the incorporation of technologies within rural production systems is successful when there is an interest in participation, leadership and competitiveness on the part of the inhabitants, which generates an impact mainly on human and social development.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLikewise, the sustainable development goals have achieved synergies and antagonisms that are reflected in the progress made in the fulfillment of their goals, as evidenced by Kroll et al. (2019), who highlight the synergy between SDG 6 and SDG 11, since the different elements associated with water quality have a direct impact on sustainable cities and communities, given that, together with the economic flow, the dynamization and well-being of the territories can be achieved.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOicat\u0026aacute; Empowerment Boyac\u0026aacute; - ACUO\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the case of the empowerment levels of the users of Oicat\u0026aacute;, there is evidence of a greater distribution in relation to their level of participation and self-recognition of their skills. In this context, Fig. \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e shows that users are organized into two groups, a first group characterized by subcategories with intermediate to high indexes (color scale). The second group is subdivided into two groups, one with a greater diversity of behavior (indexes) in the subcategories, while the second subgroup is dominated by intermediate indexes (brown).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsidering the above, Fig. \u003cspan class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e also evidences two groupings in the subcategories of empowerment. A cluster is made up of community integration skills, communication, organization, and negotiation skills, family benefits, fear control, local and national policies, optimization of family time and incorporation of technologies. In addition, a cluster has two subdivisions, the first is composed of the skills for participation, criticism, analysis, expression, increase of self-esteem, increase of goods and services and economic activities. Finally, the second subdivision is made up of the skills for administration, community action, choice, conflict resolution, security, achievement of family projects and reinforcement of values.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThus, the ACUO organization is comprised of users who have a greater diversity in their levels of empowerment, because according to [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e76\u003c/span\u003e], such progress depends on working conditions, educational level, and poverty rates, because even though there are significant gaps between the rural and urban sectors, there is a higher level of self-recognition in rural environments, especially due to their appreciation of their ability to cope with the adverse situations of everyday life and their attachment to work that requires greater physical effort. Likewise, different public and private organizations have carried out efforts in this municipality, especially in the development of activities that promote agroecology, so they recognize the importance of awakening the feeling of innovation, 3entrepreneurship and the vocation of leadership in their work in agriculture, management and change [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e45\u003c/span\u003e] \u0026amp; [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e]; [\u003cspan class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e72\u003c/span\u003e]).\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"CONCLUSION","content":"\u003cp\u003eAccess to water is a global priority, reflected in the Millennium Development Goals and the Sustainable Development Goals, especially Goal 6 \u0026ldquo;Clean Water and Sanitation\u0026rdquo;. There are water access problems in several countries, including Latin American nations, due to lack and difficulty of access, poor management, monopolization of access, and insufficient investment in infrastructure. In the department of Boyac\u0026aacute;, Colombia, there is a problem with access to water in rural areas, where a significant number of homes do not have access to water supply and there are deficiencies in monitoring water quality.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCommunity aqueducts play a crucial role in access to water for the rural population, despite facing multiple difficulties. Individual and collective empowerment is important for the development of capacities, competencies and skills in water management, enabling communities to make decisions and improve their quality of life. The comprehensive management of water resources in rural areas of Colombia occurs through community aqueducts, which are key to meeting the demand and supply of the resource.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt is essential to implement interdisciplinary and technological strategies to support human development, social sustainability and community empowerment in water management. Community-based water management is an effective and sustainable strategy for ensuring equitable and secure access to water resources in rural settings, with indigenous and peasant communities taking a crucial role in managing their own water systems. In Colombia, where most of the water providers in rural areas are managed by the communities themselves, this approach has proven to be effective and has been recognized nationally and internationally.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSignificant challenges persist in rural communities in terms of water availability and quality, which negatively impacts the quality of life and economic activities of the population. It is essential to implement sustainable and adaptable strategies that promote community participation and empowerment, from a socio-demographic and cultural approach, to ensure informed and equitable management of water services in rural communities. Water governance, based on collaboration and dialogue between the different stakeholders involved, is essential to ensure equity, sustainability and the preservation of this vital resource for community development.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe social appropriation of knowledge, through principles such as recognition of the context, participation of all stakeholders, dialogue of knowledge and skills, transformation and critical reflection, is key to promoting social transformation and building a more just and equitable future in the territories. Rural empowerment is a fundamental process for improving the well-being of the most disadvantaged communities, addressing gaps in education, health and economic development through strategies adapted to the local context.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe empowerment process requires interdisciplinary strategies and technical support to be effective, focusing on human development and social sustainability over economic and environmental sustainability. The empowerment of producers and their families in rural communities is achieved through the promotion of technological alternatives, the development of skills and resources, and collaboration among diverse stakeholder. Rural empowerment involves autonomy, participation, decision-making, influence and control by communities over their family and productive environments, overcoming the invisibility promoted by conventional agriculture.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCollaboration between rural communities and academics, the dialogue between types of knowledge and the promotion of communication ethics are key to ensure the sustainability and success of empowerment processes. The participation of producers in the planning, implementation and control of activities, considering their skills and local potential, is fundamental for the success of empowerment programs. Rural empowerment seeks to address poverty, socio-environmental imbalance and food insecurity through empowerment, education, access to information and rights, promoting autonomy and self-determination at the individual and collective levels.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003ch2\u003eFunding\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003ePedagogical and Technological University of Colombia\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePermission is granted to us (Springer Nature Limited), to publish the image under a CC BY open access license.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePermission must be granted to publish the image in all formats i.e. print and digital.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSigned by the copyright holder.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAuthor Contribution\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eColmenares, Moreno wrote the main manuscript text. Cuellar, Barrera reviewed the manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAcknowledgement\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAcknowledgements Pedag\u0026oacute;gica y tecnol\u0026oacute;gica de Colombia University.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eData Availability\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe datasets generated and/or analysed during the current study are available in the [NAME]repository, [ https://expeditiorepositorio.utadeo.edu.co/handle/20.500.12010/36314\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePrograma de las Naciones Unidas para el Desarrollo PNUD. Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible: Objetivo 6: Agua Limpia y Saneamiento. 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Los retos del acceso a agua potable y saneamiento b\u0026aacute;sico de las zonas rurales en Colombia. \u003cem\u003eRevista de Ingenier\u0026iacute;a\u003c/em\u003e. \u003cb\u003e1\u003c/b\u003e (49), 28\u0026ndash;37. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.16924/revinge.49.5\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.16924/revinge.49.5\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2020).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOsuna, K. An\u0026aacute;lisis de la asociatividad para la gesti\u0026oacute;n del agua potable, estudio de caso en tres acueductos rurales de Sogamoso Boyac\u0026aacute;. Trabajo de grado de maestr\u0026iacute;a, Universidad Externado de Colombia. 149p. 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Acueductos comunitarios, punto de partida para optimizar el suministro de agua potable. \u003cem\u003eRevista de Ingenier\u0026iacute;a\u003c/em\u003e. \u003cb\u003e1\u003c/b\u003e (49), 98\u0026ndash;102. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.16924/revinge.49.12\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.16924/revinge.49.12\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e (2020).\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSuperintendencia de Servicios P\u0026uacute;blicos. Informe nacional de cobertura de los servicios p\u0026uacute;blicos de acueducto, alcantarillado y aseo. 62p. (2023). \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://superservicios.gov.co/sites/default/files/inline-files/Informe-Nacional-de-coberturas-AAA-2022.pdf\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"https://superservicios.gov.co/sites/default/files/inline-files/Informe-Nacional-de-coberturas-AAA-2022.pdf\" targettype=\"URL\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":true,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Water, Community Development, Climate Crisis, Livelihoods","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6908510/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-6908510/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003ch2\u003eObjective\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship of community empowerment in two rural aqueducts in Boyac\u0026aacute; - Colombia, considering actions established in Sustainable Development Goal 6 - Clean water and sanitation. The development of practices focused on the care and preservation of water resources in the rural sector is one of the main goals of the national government, therefore, promoting sustainable development in the territories, especially with regard to water care and its environmental and socioeconomic implications, as well as its articulation with international policies such as the SDGs.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eMaterials and Methods\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe research was carried out with users of two rural water supply associations in Boyac\u0026aacute;, Colombia, considering the community empowerment approach and its categories of having, knowing, wanting and being able to, and the goals of SDG 6 on clean water and sanitation. To this end, structured and semi-structured interviews were conducted with users and key actors associated with the two rural water supply associations, the study protocol was approved by the ethics committee of Pedagogical and Technological University of Colombia.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eResults and Discussion\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe results obtained revealed [synthesize the main results of the research]. In the discussion section, these results are contextualized in light of the theoretical framework, highlighting the implications and relationships identified. Possible discrepancies and limitations of the study are also considered in this section.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eConclusions\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe results obtained reveal that there are low levels of community empowerment among the key actors and users of the two rural aqueducts, which shows a limited capacity for action regarding the communities' drinking water resources, which reveals future problems associated with the immediate reaction to phenomena such as climate change, generational change, decision-making and drinking water management.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"The Relationship of Community Empowerment in the Management of Rural Aqueducts Through the Sustainable Development Goal Sdg-6: A Case Study in Boyacá, Colombia","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-10-08 06:26:22","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6908510/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"85bcd68e-4365-43a5-ae15-a86bd95400b3","owner":[],"postedDate":"October 8th, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[{"id":55905524,"name":"Earth and environmental sciences/Environmental sciences"},{"id":55905525,"name":"Earth and environmental sciences/Environmental social sciences"}],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2025-10-08T06:26:23+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-10-08 06:26:22","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-6908510","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-6908510","identity":"rs-6908510","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}