Discovery of the Kawahiva People

In a remarkable tale of survival and resilience, Jair Candor stumbled upon a fascinating yet vulnerable Indigenous community within the heart of the Amazon rainforest in 1999. Encountering the remnants of huts, hunting blinds, and fishing spots belonging to the previously unknown Kawahiva people, Candor immediately adhered to Brazil’s laws designed to protect uncontacted tribes, retreating to ensure these enigmatic individuals remained uncontacted.

25 Years of Advocacy

Fast forward 25 years, and Candor, now 64, is still fighting tirelessly for the official recognition of this Southern Amazon territory that shelters the Kawahiva, who are determined to preserve their way of life amidst growing threats from large-scale agriculture and rampant logging. Against odds, the Kawahiva are not merely surviving; they seem to be thriving in their dense, vital ancestral forests, which play a crucial role in global biodiversity and carbon storage.

Candor's Journey

Candor's long journey into advocacy began at the age of six when he was first introduced to the Amazon. Now a seasoned veteran in protecting isolated peoples under Brazil’s National Indigenous Peoples Foundation (Funai), his commitment has shaped his life’s work. Before this calling, he spent years in environmentally damaging industries but eventually dedicated himself to protecting these delicate communities.

The Final Expedition

As Candor prepares for one of his final expeditions before retirement, excitement buzzes in the air. After a fun and casual barefoot football match, he and his team set off toward the expansive 411,000-hectare Pardo River Kawahiva forest to assess the well-being and security of the uncontacted people.

The Role of Manguita Amondawa

Anthropologists believe the Kawahiva belong to a linguistic group nearly wiped out, with very few of their kind remaining. With them on the expedition is Manguita Amondawa, a member of a tribe that left isolation during his childhood, ready to interpret and mediate any potential communications in the event of encountering members of the Kawahiva.

Into the Heart of the Forest

The expedition traverses roads used by logging trucks, leading into the heart of the forest. Upon reaching their destination, the team sets up camp for the night in the eerie beauty of the rainforest, lit by bioluminescent insects. The next day is dedicated to searching for signs of the Kawahiva. They discover a recent campsite, raising concern about the encroaching presence of outsiders and the potential threats that may arise from this proximity.

Resurgence of Uncontacted Populations

Recent studies indicate a resurgence of uncontacted populations in Brazil, especially where vast, intact forests exist. A 2024 draft report confirmed that the Kawahiva are among 61 identified groups of isolated peoples in South America, with an estimated 28 confirmed and even more unverified groups existing in Brazil alone.

Historical Context

Historically, the Kawahiva have faced near extinction following European contact, with their numbers dwindling due to disease and violence. Yet, today, they have maintained their existence through sustainable practices—hunting, fishing, and gathering from the land. Their ability to remain hidden and decline agriculture has allowed them to avoid the destructive impacts of modern society.

Imminent Presence of the Kawahiva

During one night of the expedition, while resting in their camp, the imminent presence of the Kawahiva was felt when the team overheard voices only 700 meters away. After a careful reconnaissance, the team came to realize that peaceful communication may be possible. The discovery that the Kawahiva were aware of their presence brought a mix of tension and hope.

Evidence of a Hidden Community

Candor has accumulated countless pieces of evidence, including photographs and eyewitness accounts showcasing the tools and habitats of the Kawahiva. Past attempts at contact have often resulted in hostility, yet with each expedition, he remains hopeful that further understanding and peaceful interaction can be achieved.

Challenges Ahead

However, the path to official recognition of their territory remains fraught with challenges. Past administrations have rejected demarcation efforts, but with the current pro-Indigenous stance of President Lula, there is a glimmer of hope. Funai director Janete Carvalho emphasizes that they are committed to securing the Kawahiva’s land and must combat agricultural and commercial interests that threaten Indigenous territories.

Signs of a Thriving Community

As Candor’s expedition makes its way back, its members find evidence of a thriving community—children's footprints signify safety and growth, alongside newly woven baskets and tools. The Kawahiva's ability to remain hidden showcases their strength, and recent assessments suggest their numbers might be increasing from approximately 20 individuals in 1999 to about 35-40 today.

A Hopeful Vision for the Future

Candor's aspirations are clear: he envisions a future for the Kawahiva where they can return to traditional practices, secure in their land, free from the incessant fear of outside threats. As he poignantly reflects on his life's work, he understands that the fate of the Kawahiva lies in the hands of future leaders. "All I can do is wish good things for them," he says. "The outcome will hinge on who continues this work and the policies that govern our nation."

An Urgent Call to Action

As the world watches, the story of the uncontacted Kawahiva serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to protect Indigenous peoples and their vanishing territories amid a rapidly changing global environment. Will the Kawahiva continue to thrive, or will they succumb to the external pressures threatening their existence? Only time will tell.