Mandacarú 

Mandacarú is an agricultural settlement developed by the government in the mid-2000s to resettle families displaced by the construction of the Castanhão dam in Ceará, northeastern Brazil. Following their relocation, many of these families faced significant economic disruption and challenges in rebuilding their livelihoods.

In response, the government invested in infrastructure and development programs—particularly in dairy farming—to promote small-scale agriculture. These efforts were also designed to strengthen food sovereignty in the region and reinforce communities’ capacity to manage their own food systems. 

The Mandacarú project supported Brazilian families in developing dairy production activities. It included investments in shared milking infrastructres alongside training in basic farming techniques and sustainable dairy farming practices.  

It fostered a sense of community and belonging by involving local young people and women in the project, giving them a stake in the future of the relocated community. 

The project supported rural development in the region, created better production conditions and facilitated access to the milk market, allowing families to improve their livelihoods.