WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Agency for International Development has joined the Government of Colombia in launching a program to help struggling members of Colombia's Afro-descendant and indigenous communities.

The program seeks to guarantee human rights, improve governance, provide job skills training and increase awareness and respect of cultural diversity. USAID is investing $61 million dollars into the program that will be implemented in coordination with the Colombian government at the national, departmental and local levels. Traditional authorities of indigenous groups and Afro-descendant organizations will also participate in leadership roles.

Speaking at the program's December 1st launch event in Bogota, Mark Lopes, USAID Deputy Assistant Administrator for Latin America and the Caribbean said, "We are confident that with the collaboration of the Colombian Government and people, this program will serve as a catalyst for change in societal attitudes and help create meaningful economic and other opportunities for these vulnerable communities."