But their knowledge and their cultural understanding of the environment might turn out to be very important for understanding the ways in which they cope with insecurity. The researcher refrains from using the term 'indigenous' knowledge. Many were captured in raids on neighbouring populations, in some cases less than 100 years ago, then sold at slave markets and exchanged between the Tuareg of different regions. Others simply migrated after the abolition of slavery, which took place not even 50 years ago. The fieldwork will start in December 1995, and last 15 months.
Suggestions regarding the research are most welcome.
Working with indigenous communities, APRI will secure the Urarina's legal title to their traditional homelands, the Chambira Basin. This is a vast, blackwater drainage system comprised of 'pristine' rainforest. The year-long titling effort will officially register the Urarina's right to live in the Chambira Basin, and to manage and defend its natural resources. The second year will combine aspects of community defence by providing financial incentives for communal trading enterprises, and by promoting collective resource management and biodiversity protection. The study took place as part of a national research programme designed to help achieve better management of natural resources and to discover potential within the reserve.