Reading 2 : La Guajira and its problems

La Guajira is one of the most beautiful and distinctive regions of Colombia; even though it has been blessed with many natural resources, our region is one of the poorest of the country. I wonder why does this happen? We have coal and salt mines; we have natural gas that is distributed to many cities of the country. So, what is the problem? There have been many governors and mayors but still our situation has not changed. The multinationals companies working in our land have produced millions of dollars since they exploit our richness but we have not seen that money invested in schools for our children, drinking water for our communities, food for our indigenous people and a good health system. I have interviewed many candidates for mayors and governors during the elections time and they have talked to me about their plans and visions for our region but once they are in the power they forget their plans and do nothing for our people. Corruption has been a problem for decades in La Guajira.