Indigenous peoples in Suriname facts for kids
Schoolchildren of the Kali'na community at Bigi Poika in Suriname.
|
|
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| ~12,000–24,000 3.7% of Suriname's population |
|
| Regions with significant populations | |
| Paramaribo, Wanica, Para, Marowijne, Sipaliwini | |
| Languages | |
| Akurio, Arawak-Lokono, Carib-Kari'nja, Sikiana-Kashuyana, Tiro-Tiriyó, Waiwai, Warao, Wayana, Dutch, Sranan Tongo, English | |
| Religion | |
| Native American religion, Christianity (Catholicism and Protestantism), others |
The Indigenous peoples in Suriname are the first people who lived in the country of Suriname. They are also called Native Surinamese or Amerindian Surinamese. These communities have a long history in the region.
Today, about 3.5% of Suriname's population are Indigenous peoples. This means that out of every 100 people in Suriname, about 3 or 4 are Indigenous. They keep their unique cultures and traditions alive.
Who Are the Indigenous Peoples of Suriname?
The Indigenous peoples of Suriname are the descendants of the very first groups who lived in the area. They have lived there for thousands of years. Their way of life is closely connected to the land and nature.
They have their own languages, customs, and beliefs. Many of these traditions have been passed down through generations. They play an important role in the country's rich cultural mix.
Different Indigenous Groups Today
There are several different Indigenous groups living in Suriname. Each group has its own special culture and language. They often live in specific areas of the country.
Here are some of the main groups:
- Akurio: They live near the Tapanahoni and Sipaliwini rivers. Their main village is Kwamalasamutu.
- Arawak (Lokono): This group is found in Suriname and also in nearby countries like French Guiana, Guyana, and Venezuela.
- Kalina: You can find Kalina people in Suriname, Brazil, Guyana, French Guiana, and Venezuela.
- Mawayana: This group also lives in Suriname.
- Saloema (Taruma): They live in Kwamalasamutu on the Sipaliwini river. They are also found in Brazil and Guyana.
- Sikiana: Like the Akurio and Saloema, some Sikiana live in Kwamalasamutu. They are also in Brazil.
- Tiriyó: They live near the Tapanahoni River and Sipaliwini River. You can also find them in Brazil.
- Waiwai: This group lives in Suriname, Brazil, and Guyana.
- Warao: They are found in Suriname, Venezuela, and Guyana.
- Wayana: They live in the southwest Marowijne District and near the upper Tapanahoni river. They are also in Brazil and French Guiana.
These groups work to preserve their heritage. They share their unique stories and knowledge with the world.
See also
- Demographics of Suriname
