Yanomami youth are utilizing drones to monitor their vast Indigenous territory as illegal mining poses significant crises. Training programs were established by the Hutukara Yanomami Association, enabling young leaders to use technology for environmental monitoring. Recent government efforts have aided eviction of miners; however, the youth remain essential in ongoing land defense.
In Brazil’s Yanomami Indigenous Land, audacious youth are utilizing drones to safeguard their extensive territory, which stretches nearly as large as Portugal. This area is home to about 32,212 Yanomami and Ye’kwana. With about 20,000 illegal miners invading the region over the past seven years, young leaders empowered by drone technology are aiming to counteract environmental and humanitarian crises.
The Yanomami faced severe challenges when illegal mining escalated, prompting appeals for government interventions that were largely ignored under President Jair Bolsonaro’s administration. His support for mining on Indigenous lands hindered efforts to remove invaders. After feeling abandoned, the Yanomami sought independence in protecting their land, leading to the establishment of drone training initiatives in 2022 by the Hutukara Yanomami Association (HAY).
Maurício Ye’kwana, from HAY, began implementing drone training during the 2021 COP26 climate summit and collaborated with European funders to support this initiative through CAFOD, an international humanitarian organization. With the ability to cover vast areas, trained youth now utilize this technology for territory surveillance.
Advanced training has equipped individuals like Cidiclei Palimitheli and Alexandre Ye’kwana with drone operation skills, aiding in territorial mapping and monitoring. The courses, conducted across three levels from basic to advanced, have been instrumental in fostering young leaders who can monitor illegal mining activities more effectively.
Following President Lula’s election in 2023, hopes were reignited for stronger government action against illegal mining. Significant efforts have led to the eviction of many miners, ultimately resulting in a dramatic reduction in gold mining activity within the territory. However, the challenge persists as some illegal miners continue to return despite government interventions.
The Hutukara Association partnered with the Indigenous Council of Roraima to facilitate workshops focusing on drone skills crucial for monitoring environmental degradation. Trainees have engaged in hands-on learning, producing georeferenced photos and mapping vulnerable water bodies contaminated by mercury from mining. These efforts have led to notable advancements in their capabilities.
Giofan Erasmo, from CIR, remarked on the transformative effects of teaching drone operation, noting significant progress among trainees. The exciting synergy between Indigenous knowledge and technology has created opportunities for enhanced territory management. The emphasis is to sustain these training efforts, ensuring the Yanomami can independently monitor their land in the long term, as reliance on government support may not be feasible indefinitely.
The Yanomami youth have taken the initiative to protect their territory through drone technology, cultivating skills to monitor illegal mining activities. With training programs successfully implemented by the Hutukara Yanomami Association, young leaders are empowered to safeguard their land. While recent government actions have bolstered their efforts against illegal mining, the need for continuous training and self-reliance remains critical for the longevity of their protective measures.
Original Source: news.mongabay.com
