Maxakali Indigenous Territory wildfire contained after destroying significant land

A major wildfire in the Maxakali Indigenous Territory in Minas Gerais, Brazil, has been largely contained after four days of combat operations. The fire, which began in the rural area of Santa Helena de Minas, consumed nearly one-fifth of the approximately 5,000-hectare territory.

The blaze caused significant environmental damage, destroying native forests and areas dedicated to the ‘Hãmhi – Terra Viva’ reforestation project. Beyond the ecological impact, the indigenous Tikmu'un people are facing humanitarian challenges, including respiratory issues from smoke and a shortage of food, potable water, and medical assistance due to the destruction of crops and natural resources.

Firefighting efforts were coordinated by the Minas Gerais Fire Department and included personnel from Ibama, the Military Police, the State Civil Defense, and indigenous volunteers. While the main fire focus has been extinguished, teams remain on-site to monitor the region and prevent reignition through cooling and surveillance operations.