Dams
The state government of Mato Grosso plans to build a large number of hydroelectric dams on the Juruena River, upstream of the Enawene Nawe’s land. Five dams are already under construction, despite the fact there has been no proper environmental and social impact assessment, nor proper consultation with the tribes affected. Three other dams have been given environmental licences so construction work can now begin. Another dam is built in the Amazon rainforest. Some dams are being funded by the Maggi company to benefit their soya business. The family is the world’s largest producer of soya and one member, Blairo Maggi, is the governor of Mato Grosso state. In total, up to 80 dams are planned for the Juruena River basin although the Indians were initially told the number was five. The Enawene Nawe believe they will cause irreversible damage to their way of life by polluting the water and killing the fish which are a major part of their diet. Desperate struggle The Enawene...