Ever wonder where Cali’s history intertwines with its vibrant present? That place is Comuna 1. Comuna 1 sits on the western edge of Cali. It lies on the slopes of the Cordillera Occidental. This location places it between the Cali and Aguacatal rivers. It is part of the Distrito de Ladera. Comuna 1’s story is one of migration. It is one of community building.
In the 1940s Cali’s growing commerce drew people from Cauca, Nariño, and Viejo Caldas. This influx created a demand for housing. Makeshift homes of wood and cardboard sprang up in what is now Comuna 1. Legalizing these settlements became a struggle. Finally in 1964, Terrón Colorado was officially recognized. Vista Hermosa followed in 1966. Even today many residents seek formal property titles.
Let’s talk about La Legua. It was the first settled area. Its name comes from its distance to Plaza de Caicedo. Travelers would stop here for refreshing agua panela.
Comuna 1 officially formed in August 1988. Cali divided its urban area into twenty comunas. Comuna 1 has a flag. It has green, blue and red stripes. The colors represent its location between the Tres Cruces and Cristo Rey hills and the Cali and Aguacatal rivers.
Today Comuna 1 includes neighborhoods like Aguacatal and Terrón Colorado. Others include Vista Hermosa and Patio Bonito. While Vista Hermosa and Terrón Colorado are recognized, others await official status. Each has a Community Action Board.
The land here is part of a forest reserve. It lies between the Cali and Aguacatal rivers. The terrain is steep. There is significant hydrological activity. There is also deforestation. Some areas are high-risk zones for housing.
The Aguacatal River starts in Alto del Aguacatal. It flows into the Cali River. Sadly the river receives wastewater. This comes from homes in Vista Hermosa, Terrón Colorado, and Aguacatal.
In 2003-2004, Comuna 1 had about 65,778 residents. This made for a dense population. Homes are mostly classified as low-low or low income. Many residents work in the informal economy. Some have family businesses making shoes or cleaning supplies. Mining and trade also provide jobs.
Comuna 1 has a health center in Terrón Colorado. There are also health posts in Vista Hermosa and Alto Aguacatal. The main center often struggles to serve everyone. Specialists are at the Cañaveralejo Hospital in Comuna 3.
In the late 1990s, Comuna 1 had many schools. These included 31 primary schools and 17 secondary schools. Illiteracy was around 8% in 1985. Today educational institutions include José Holguín Garcés and Isaías Gamboa.
Public services in Comuna 1 faced challenges in the early 2000s. Electricity, phone and water coverage were below city averages. Some areas get water from the Aguacatal River. This water is not always treated.
Sewer service coverage was also low. Areas without it improperly dispose of wastewater. This pollutes the Aguacatal and Cali rivers. Trash collection occurs twice a week in most areas.
Comuna 1 stands as a testament to Cali’s growth. It reflects the struggles and triumphs of its people. It is a community striving for a better future. Its history is etched into every street. It is in every home. It is in every heart.