VIVAT members in Brazil are deeply concerned about the growing crisis due to the Brazilian government plan to divert part of São Francisco river’s waters to Pernambuco, Paraíba, Ceará, and Rio Grande do Norte rivers to irrigate the Northeast. World Bank and Japan’s Overseas Economic Cooperation Fund will finance the $1.3 billion cost. However, there are some very serious problems.

 The state of Bahia has always opposed the project arguing that the water detour would severely harm the state's economy by threatening four essential power plants in the region. It would also have negative environmental and social impacts.

 Experts feel there were not enough environmental impact studies done. Moreover, there are hundreds of islands along the river inhabited by aboriginal communities and “quilombolas” that live along the 2,700 km São Francisco River and they will be aversely affected by the project. Some scientists even fear mass starvation and consequently death among the indigenous tribes along the river.

 The biggest protest comes from Bishop Dom Luis Flávio Cappio, of the Diocese of Barra (BA) who went on hunger strike last September 26, 2005. The CNBB (National Conference of the Bishops of Brazil) has issued a statement of support for Bishop Cappio addressed to President Lula of Brazil. In their statement, they appealed for a restudy of the project from diversion to revitalization of São Francisco River or at the very least a postponement of the project. The federal government of Brazil issued an official reply October 1, 2005 stating that it understands the fight of the bishop, but will continue with the project because it will benefit many people.

 We appeal to the International community and to all Non-government organizations to intervene in an appropriate manner, so that immediate action is taken by the Brazilian Government to save São Francisco River and to re-look into the project in consultation with the public, NGOs and members of civil society.

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