Fundraising campaign by Curawaka & WaterNow
Phase II completed
In March 2023 we completed phase II:
The Yawanawá people of Mutum now have access to flushing toilets with a bio septic system!
2 new bathrooms and sanitation stations for the community
Served not only 182 but 1200 Yawanawa people
Brought water filters for other houses in Aldeia Mutum and neighboring villages
Started a permaculture movement
Before
Before these new toilets were built, Aldeia Mutum faced significant sanitation challenges. With no proper facilities, community members had to rely on makeshift solutions, which posed health risks and contributed to the spread of disease.
The absence of running water and designated sanitation spaces made it difficult to maintain cleanliness, particularly for children and the elderly. The community recognized the urgent need for change, but resources and infrastructure were limited—until now.
After
These toilets mark the beginning of a new, sustainable chapter for Aldeia Mutum, enhancing health and sanitation, curbing the spread of disease, and helping preserve the precious Amazon rainforest.
One community member called them “the nicest bathroom they’ve seen in the entire rainforest”. With spacious stalls and a well-equipped sink area, they provide a hygienic, comfortable space for all.
Water Quality Improvement
This analysis highlights the effectiveness of our advanced water purification system by measuring a range of critical water quality parameters and showcasing the significant reduction of heavy metals, nitrates, and nitrites in the diagrams.
Our filtration process has achieved outstanding improvements, including:
✔ pH Stabilization – Improved from 6.2 to 7.3
✔ Hardness Reduction – Reduced from 290 mg/L to 27 mg/L (a 90.7% reduction)
✔ E. Coli – Reduced from 22,000 CFU/100 mL to 180-22 CFU/100 mL (a 98.2% reduction)
By thoroughly monitoring and comparing key water parameters before and after treatment, the data underscores the system’s efficiency in eliminating hazardous contaminants while maintaining the natural mineral balance. This ensures a reliable supply of clean, safe drinking water, significantly enhancing the health and well-being of the Yawanawa community.
Learn moreThe vision and work of their ancestors
Our journey to Aldeia Mutum was not easy, but every challenge and lesson we faced was worth it to see the joy on the faces of these children. We are thankful to the Yawanawá people of Mutum for welcoming us into their homes and trusting us to bring clean water to their families. Their smiles and gratitude are the greatest rewards for our work
This is a continuation of the vision and work of their ancestors: Matsinis’s father (Raimundo Luis Tui Kuru Ãnihãu Xinã Yawanawa) and grandfather (Tata) the last Shaman of the elders.
Brazil indigenous people fight for the rainforest
In his TEDxBedford talk, Nixiwaka Yawanawá, a member of Brazil’s Yawanawá tribe, emphasizes the critical role indigenous peoples play in preserving the Amazon rainforest. He highlights the deep connection between indigenous cultures and their ancestral lands, underscoring how their traditional knowledge and sustainable practices are vital in combating deforestation and environmental degradation. Yawanawá calls for global recognition and support of indigenous rights, asserting that protecting their way of life is essential for the health of the planet.
2016 our first project in the Amazon rainforest
In 2016 WaterNow did the first project in the Amazon rainforest. Then we went back in 2019 for the Huni Kuin. After this successful 2022 project in the Indigenous Land of the Yawanawá we returned in 2023 for a bigger phase 2.
Our aim is to align with other rainforest organizations, helping them to guard all their lands.
