World Food Programme Fighting Hunger Worldwide

Some 3,700 members of the Awá indigenous community live in the rainforest of Chocó, a protected area with high biodiversity. Awá indigenous communities in Ecuador are settled in Carchi, Imbabura and Esmeraldas provinces. 

The food security of Awá communities depend basically on natural resources. The main food is a small banana named “chiro”. Hunting have decreased in the area, but  the favorite prey is still “ratón puyoso,” a local rodent.

For the Awá people, feeding time is always an important mechanism for integration and family reunion. This time is also an important moment to plan the development of community work.

The Awá woman has a fundamental role in the community for the preservation of the language and culture. She is considered the pillar of the family, integration, nutrition, and kids’ care.