A new project, Ywy Ipuranguete, launched in Brazil under the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund, aims to empower Indigenous Peoples in managing their territories across 15 Indigenous lands. Coordinated by the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples and backed by significant funding, the initiative emphasizes sustainable land use, biodiversity protection, and the strengthening of Indigenous governance. The project aligns with global biodiversity objectives and recognizes the vital role of Indigenous knowledge in conservation efforts.
The Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) has launched a project in Brazil titled Ywy Ipuranguete, aimed at empowering Indigenous Peoples to manage and protect their territories. This initiative encompasses 15 Indigenous lands totaling 6 million hectares across various biomes such as the Amazon and Atlantic Forest, inhabited by around 57,000 Indigenous individuals, who hold vital ecological importance.
This project is coordinated by the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples (MPI) in collaboration with the Brazilian Fund for Biodiversity (FUNBIO). Its primary focus is on enhancing sustainable territorial management and bolstering the conservation of critical biodiversity areas.
The official unveiling of Ywy Ipuranguete, which translates to ‘beautiful land’ in the Tupi-Guarani language, occurred on March 18 at the Memorial of Indigenous Peoples in Brasília, drawing participation from governmental representatives and Indigenous leaders nationally.
Minister of Indigenous Peoples, Sonia Guajajara, emphasized the project’s importance, stating, “The Indigenous Peoples are the true guardians of the forest… ensures the conditions for them to continue protecting their territories”.
Under the management of the International Institute of Education of Brazil (IEB) and with backing from the National Foundation of Indigenous Peoples (Funai), the GBFF finances the initiative to address global biodiversity challenges. Costs for the project are approximately $9 million.
Astrid Schomaker, Executive Secretary of the Convention on Biological Diversity, expressed her satisfaction, stating, “I am delighted that one of the first projects of the GBFF supports the involvement of Indigenous Peoples…”. Meanwhile, Carlos Manuel Rodríguez, CEO of the GEF, remarked on the project’s significance in enhancing biodiversity protections through Indigenous management of territories.
The initiative also aims to generate sustainable income, foster environmental monitoring, and empower Indigenous governance.
The project prioritizes Indigenous Territorial and Environmental Management Instruments (IGATIs), which ensure sustainable land use and Indigenous participation in governance. These collectively built plans reflect the unique cultural and environmental characteristics of the Indigenous communities.
Main actions of Ywy Ipuranguete include:
– Monitoring and Territorial Protection: Enhancing security through community infrastructure, drones, and radios.
– Sustainable Economic Development: Supporting Indigenous productive chains and facilitating access to public programs.
– Training and Cultural Appreciation: Training youth and women in leadership roles and promoting traditional knowledge.
– Food Sovereignty and Environmental Restoration: Advocating for sustainable agricultural practices aligned with Indigenous cultures.
Founded in 1996, FUNBIO is a non-profit organization that collaborates with various sectors to support biodiversity conservation and has managed over 700 projects.
The Global Biodiversity Framework Fund financially supports biodiversity management and governance, allocating substantial resources to Indigenous-led initiatives. The Global Environment Facility has invested extensively to tackle pressing environmental issues through collaborative funding efforts.
The Ministry of Indigenous Peoples, active since 2023, is focused on promoting Indigenous rights and cultures and managing their territories effectively. The National Foundation of Indigenous Peoples (Funai) plays a crucial role in protecting and advocating for Indigenous rights, while the International Institute of Education of Brazil (IEB) strengthens local capacities in socio-environmental governance.
The Ywy Ipuranguete project represents a significant advancement in empowering Indigenous Peoples in Brazil, allowing them to manage and protect their territories effectively. Through collaborative efforts among various organizations, this initiative seeks to ensure sustainable environmental management, enhance Indigenous governance, and acknowledge the critical role these communities play in biodiversity conservation. By prioritizing Indigenous knowledge and values, the project not only safeguards ecological balance but also supports the socio-economic development of Indigenous populations.
Original Source: www.thegef.org
