Laranjal do Jari

In southwestern Amapá, Laranjal do Jari developed in a region with a long Indigenous presence and livelihoods tied to rivers and forests. The Jari Project, established in the second half of the twentieth century, drew workers from different parts of Brazil and accelerated settlement along the Jari River, opposite the industrial centre of Monte Dourado in Pará. The municipality was created in 1987 from part of Mazagão.

Its history brings together migration, urban growth and the knowledge of communities that harvest forest products. Brazil nuts and açaí connect the economy with forests and local ways of life. Visiting Laranjal means observing these relationships between the city, productive activities and river landscapes, while respecting communities and protected-area rules.

In Alto Cajari, women from the AMAC and Amobio associations organised community kitchens to make Brazil-nut biscuits and paçoca sweets, with documented supplies to schools in Laranjal. Their experience connects regional flavours with the history of community organisation.