The Order of Merit of Women, an exceptional decoration awarded by the Peruvian government, was granted to eight citizens from the Amazon in recognition of their contributions and longstanding work for the development of their region.
The distinction is contained in Resolution No. 000246-2026-MIMP, issued by the aforementioned Cabinet portfolio. The document was published Tuesday in the Legal Regulations supplement of Official Gazette El Peruano.
The list of honorees includes sisters Marcela, Magdalena, Lidia, and Victoria Machaca Mendieta, in recognition of their contributions to water preservation and protection, promoting ancestral practices for its sustainable use and strengthening Indigenous women's participation.
Likewise, the distinction recognizes Rosalia Clemente Tacza, a leader and defender of Indigenous and native rural women's rights.
Both her career and "contribution to the promotion of her culture and the national agrarian movement" are considered significant.
Another honoree is Olinda Silvano Inuma De Arias, a Shipibo-Koniba artist and promoter of kené art.
She is recognized for having contributed through her work "to the preservation, transmission, and promotion of Amazonian cultural identity."
Moreover, the list includes Liz Chicaje Churay, "in recognition of her leadership in defending the territory and rights of Amazonian Indigenous peoples," particularly the Bora people, as well as her work protecting forests and promoting sustainable development models.
Finally, the distinction also recognizes Avita Taricuarima Dreyfus for her contribution to scientific development by promoting her people's ancestral knowledge and directing her work toward Amazon's protection and communities' health.
The Order of Merit of Women decoration was created through Supreme Decree No. 005-2003-MIMDES "as a symbol of recognition for female citizens who stand out socially for their commitment to the defense and promotion of equal opportunities between men and women nationwide."
(END) FGM/MAO/MVB
Published: 5/12/2026