KUMARUARA Forest Guardians

Area​

12,274 Hectares

Ethnic Groups

Kumaruara

STATUS

In demarcation process

PROGRAM

Forest Guardians operating since 2024

The Kumaruara people, located in the RESEX fight back to protect their lands.

Looking Ahead

With the Lula administration showing openness to dialogue, the Indigenous Council’s efforts, combined with strong networks and legal advocacy, are critical to achieving demarcation and environmental protection goals. The work continues to focus on safeguarding the tangible and intangible heritage of the Kumaruara people.

Nestled within the Tapajós-Arapiuns Extractive Reserve, the Kumaruara Territory spans 12,274.89 hectares in the Lower Tapajós region of Santarém, Pará. Home to approximately 2,000 indigenous people across 8 villages, this vibrant community thrives amidst Amazonian rainforests, rivers, and floodplains.

The Kumaruara people are deeply committed to preserving their rich cultural heritage, including rituals, handicrafts, music, artisanal fishing, and sustainable cultivation practices, while addressing significant challenges like deforestation, overfishing, and the growing impacts of the climate crisis.

"In the face of illegal fishing, deforestation, and a changing climate, we remain committed to protecting our home. Together, we work to safeguard the forests, rivers, and traditions that define who we are."

Play Video

Zenilda coordinator of the Kumaruara Association talking about the Indigenous movement in the region.

Challenges
& Realities

Key Challenges

Illegal Activities – Predatory fishing and illegal deforestation threaten the natural balance and resources of the territory.

Environmental Threats – Prolonged droughts have led to forest fires, water crises, and food insecurity, further endangering the community’s livelihood.

Resource Limitations – Insufficient equipment and funding hinder effective monitoring and protection of the territory.

Guardians of the Kumaruara Territory

A dedicated team of 32 individuals, soon to expand to 48, works tirelessly to monitor and protect the land and waterways. Their mission involves:

Environmental Surveillance-Regular patrols in forests, rivers, and streams to detect and prevent illegal activities.

Community Awareness- Educating residents about conservation and sustainable practices.

Continuous Training- Enhancing skills and knowledge to improve the effectiveness of territorial protection.

The Kumaruara community collaborates with organizations like Treesistance, which supports Indigenous-led initiatives to protect the Amazon rainforest. These partnerships strengthen territorial defense, promote sustainable practices, and advocate for human rights, ensuring the Kumaruara can thrive in harmony with their environment.

Cultural Significance

The Kumaruara people’s connection to nature is deeply spiritual, symbolized by their body art inspired by the bat, the bearer of the Kumaru seed. This seed represents healing, reforestation, and balance—core values embedded in their identity. Through these practices, the Kumaruara celebrate their sacred bond with the environment, reinforcing the importance of preserving their culture and territory.

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