Despite the drop in deaths in Yanomami land, malaria and malnutrition remain far from eradicated, and cases of acute respiratory infections have increased, even after two years of Lula’s (PT) government crackdown on illegal mining.
The situation highlights a new challenge in the protection of indigenous peoples in the region. When contacted, the Ministry of Health stated that the increase in medical care and testing also leads to a higher number of reported cases.
BOA VISTA, RR. 12/01/2024. Medications for the treatment of malaria stored in the pharmacy at the Surucucu Base Pole, in the Yanomami Indigenous Land, in Roraima. ( Foto: Lalo de Almeida/Folhapress )
The current Yanomami crisis stems from the explosion of illegal mining in the region, which escalated during Jair Bolsonaro’s (PL) administration. The previous government shut down healthcare posts and left the region in a precarious state.
In January 2023, Lula’s government launched an operation against illegal mining and to restore the health system. According to the current administration, malaria-related deaths dropped by 35% in 2023 and 2024, while the number of tests increased by 73%, considering the period between January and September.
The number of malaria cases rose from around 14,000 to 18,000—more than half of the 32,000 indigenous people living in the area (reinfections are common).
The government states that the number of healthcare professionals working in the territory has increased by 155%, and medical assistance has expanded by 268%.
However, cases of acute respiratory infections rose by 272%—from 3,133 in the first half of 2023 to 11,484 in the same period the following year.
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