The situation is critical because it is occurring in a context already characterised by poverty, food insecurity and a lack of access to basic services. In this Amazonian region, many families live off subsistence farming, fishing and bartering. The floods have devastated crops, destroyed traditional homes and severely restricted mobility and access to food, drinking water and healthcare.
In La Esmeralda, the lower-lying areas have been completely flooded. The airstrip has also been damaged, bringing air traffic to a standstill and hindering the transport of sick people and essential supplies. In Mavaca, the floodwaters have damaged community infrastructure such as the Salesian mission, schools, canteens and meeting places. Many Yanomami families have been forced to move deeper into the jungle, which increases their vulnerability and makes it more difficult to reach them with aid.
Furthermore, the loss of conucos – family plots where bitter cassava, bananas, plantains and other staple foods are grown – and the inability to fish normally are creating a growing risk of famine in the affected communities; whilst the lack of drinking water and stagnant water increase the risk of disease.
The emergency poses a threat to the food security, health and daily lives of indigenous communities
The floods have also disrupted school life. Many children and teenagers are unable to attend school, which in these communities also serves as a place of protection, nutrition and support. For families affected or scattered throughout the jungle, the Salesian school represents a vital support network.
In the coming months, the Salesians intend to distribute kits containing non-perishable food, drinking water and sanitation supplies to those in need, and to promote hygiene and health initiatives.
Hammocks and mosquito nets will also be provided for temporary shelter, along with primary healthcare medicines and basic items for disease prevention. Furthermore, 450 families will receive the tools to restore their crops and fishing activities, with the aim of gradually rebuilding their food self-sufficiency.
Emergency aid can save lives today and restore livelihoods tomorrow
The Salesian response is not limited to an initial emergency distribution, but seeks to ensure the survival and dignity of affected families, helping them to restore their livelihoods so that they can return to farming, fishing and supporting their communities once the water begins to recede.
Logistics is currently one of the greatest challenges. The isolation of the area, flooded infrastructure and transport difficulties require significant resources to deliver food, medicines, shelter materials, tools and fuel to the hardest-hit communities.
“MISIONES SALESIANAS”, the Salesian Mission Office in Madrid, is supporting this emergency response in the Upper Orinoco and is appealing for everyone’s support.
Source: MISIONES SALESIANAS
