Brokopoldingar

Brokopoldingar refers to the indigenous population of the Brokopondo District in Suriname. This term primarily encompasses the Matawai, a Marron group who are descendants of escaped African slaves. They inhabit the interior of Suriname, largely in the rainforests along the Suriname River. The Matawai are known for their distinct cultural practices, language, and social structure, which have been preserved for centuries in their relatively isolated communities.

The establishment of the Brokopondo Reservoir in the 1960s significantly impacted the Brokopoldingar. The reservoir, created for hydroelectric power generation, submerged large areas of their traditional lands, leading to forced relocations. This displacement presented challenges to their way of life, including their connection to ancestral territories and traditional resource use.

Despite these challenges, the Brokopoldingar have maintained a strong sense of identity and cultural heritage. Their economy traditionally relies on subsistence farming, fishing, and hunting. They have developed intricate knowledge of the rainforest environment. Their spiritual beliefs and practices are deeply intertwined with their history and environment. Efforts continue to preserve their culture and ensure their rights and well-being in contemporary Suriname.