IFC denies financial involvement in Honduran dam
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Article summary
The IFC is denying involvement in the controversial Agua Zarca hydroelectric project, which is strongly opposed by local indigenous groups; an activist was killed by the army in July.
An International Finance Corporation (IFC, the Bank’s private sector arm) spokesman denied any involvement in the Aqua Zarca hydroelectric project and stated in an email that “IFC client, FICOHSA, is not providing funding for the Agua Zarca Dam” (see Update 86). Activists have been attempting to block the companies’ access since early April. In July the Lenca indigenous leader and COPINH member Tomas Garcia was shot and killed by the army near the project site. His son was also shot and injured in the incident. Several activists have been arrested, including COPINH member Berta Cáceres. Cáceres, who is still awaiting her final verdict, says that the protesters will continue blocking access to the dams construction site.