I N T R O D U C T I O N
With the COVID-19 pandemic still raging across the globe, this crisis is likely to stretch on for a few years. The situation is especially critical for indigenous peoples, a global community who experience the most severe poverty levels, inadequate health and other social services, and systemic discrimination whether they are in developed or developing countries.
While various approaches and expertise exist regarding food systems which nurture health and community well-being, indigenous peoples’ tried and time-tested practices have been proven to build their resilience. Indigenous food systems are at the core of indigenous identity, traditional knowledge, and sustainable management of lands, resources, and biodiversity. Food systems are integral to indigenous peoples’ reciprocal and interdependent relationship with their environment. They are also vital in reinforcing community cooperation, mutual support, and cultural practices. In fact, many indigenous festivals are celebrated during planting and harvest seasons.
Indigenous peoples have confronted the COVID- 19 pandemic and other serious challenges facing their lands and resources in food sovereignty terms, while upholding their dignity, rights, and well-being and maintaining sustainable food systems. By supporting indigenous food systems, PAWANKA Fund strengthens holistic health and well-being in indigenous communities. More than ever, these efforts are mitigating the impacts of the pandemic, especially in areas where state support for health is difficult to access or inadequate.
The following projects are in various phases of implementation, adjusting and responding to conditions arising from the pandemic. Some projects took place prior to the pandemic, proving that indigenous peoples’ reliance on and continuing transfer of traditional knowledge and practices are vital to their survival and well-being, while strengthening community leadership and agency. The projects are testimonies to broad aspects of indigenous culture, resource management, and collective spirituality that should be appreciated, supported, and popularized.
DOWNLOAD REPORT HERE: FOOD THEMATIC
