Associação Uasei dos Povos Indígenas de Oiapoque

Founded in 2022, the Associação Uasei dos Povos Indígenas de Oiapoque unites four Indigenous Peoples in Amapá, Brazil, to build a pioneering bioeconomy model rooted in sustainability, cultural preservation, and economic autonomy. Uasei disrupts exploitative middlemen in the açaí trade by creating an Indigenous-controlled value chain. Blending traditional ecological knowledge with modern techniques, they sustainably manage native açaí groves, protecting biodiversity while ensuring livelihoods. Uasei established Amapá’s first agroindustry on Indigenous land, producing pulp, lyophilized powder, and soon ice cream, capturing greater market value. Their Empório Uasei storefront promotes artisanal crafts and açaí products, boosting cultural visibility and tourism. Operating with democratic governance and strong participation from women and youth, Uasei exemplifies how an Indigenous-led bioeconomy can generate income, protect ecosystems, and strengthen cultural identity.