Food Autonomy and Sustainability in the Brazilian Amazon: Examining the Impact of Food Sovereignty
In the heart of the Brazilian Amazon, on the Gregório River Indigenous land in the municipality of Tarauacá, Acre, a new chapter unfolds for the Yawanawá People. Led by their member João Felipe Yawanawá da Silva, also known as Tuata, the Emâ Vena Center was established, a project aimed at environmental restoration and preserving cultural heritage.
Emâ Vena, meaning 'new place,' 'fresh start,' 'the beginning of a new life and time' in the Yawanawá language, was a collective endeavour. Friends and family members were deeply involved, sharing the vision of a sustainable future for their community.
However, the project faced initial setbacks due to the Amazon's worst-ever rainfall deficit in 2024, leading to an extreme drought in Tarauacá. Many seedlings perished, but Tuata's determination remained undeterred.
Tuata, a descendant of traditional farmers and healers, oversaw all steps of the project management. He selected planting areas, prepared the soil, laid the beds, gathered seedlings, planted, and took care of the young plants. Among the crops planted were banana, lemon, orange, avocado, tangerine, papaya, peppers, cupuassu, cassava, and açaí berry.
The Yawanawá People, known as the 'peccary people,' rely heavily on medicinal plants (nii pei) for their health, well-being, and cultural maintenance. Tuata's focus on planting medicinal plants was a testament to their importance.
Despite the harsh conditions, Tuata's initial enthusiasm was shaken. Yet, through dedication, collaboration, and hard work, he persevered. The Emâ Vena project may have concluded, but Tuata remains motivated to continue the work.
His vision for the future includes reforesting his territory with native trees and starting a medicinal plants garden to preserve traditional knowledge. Tuata also aims to increase food sovereignty among the Yawanawá People by focusing on fruits and vegetables.
The community was united by a common goal of sharing benefits from the work. The Emâ Vena Center, a symbol of resilience and hope for the Yawanawá People, stands as a testament to Tuata's leadership and the power of collective effort.
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