Yeꞌkuana

The Yeꞌkuana, also known as the Maquiritare, So'to, or Dekwana, are an indigenous people inhabiting the Amazon rainforest, primarily in Venezuela and Brazil. Their territory spans the Orinoco River basin in Venezuela, including the regions of Amazonas and Bolívar states, and extends into the northern parts of the Brazilian state of Roraima.

The Yeꞌkuana language belongs to the Cariban language family. Their traditional way of life revolves around agriculture, hunting, fishing, and gathering. They are known for their intricate basketry, wood carvings, and the construction of large communal houses called attas or yekwanas.

Yeꞌkuana society is traditionally organized around kinship groups, with complex social structures and a rich mythology. They possess a deep understanding of their environment and utilize traditional ecological knowledge for sustainable resource management.

Over time, the Yeꞌkuana have faced various challenges, including diseases introduced by outsiders, encroachment on their lands by mining and logging operations, and pressures from acculturation. Efforts are being made by indigenous organizations and other groups to protect their culture, language, and land rights. Their vibrant traditions and cultural heritage continue to be an important part of the Amazonian cultural landscape.