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Kilombo Tenondé

Our Story

Rescuing the philosophy of the quilombos through education, sustainable agriculture, and cultural preservation.

Who We Are

Kilombo Tenondé is an eco-educational center located in Bahia, Brazil, dedicated to preserving and promoting Afro-Brazilian heritage through educational programs, sustainable agriculture, and cultural initiatives.

Founded by renowned Capoeira Angola master Mestre Cobra Mansa, our quilombo serves as a living space where ancestral traditions meet contemporary solutions to create a sustainable model of community living.

The term "quilombo" has deep historical roots in Brazil. During the era of slavery, quilombos were settlements of escaped enslaved people who established free, self-sufficient communities. Today, Kilombo Tenondé revives that spirit of autonomy, cultural resistance, and connection to the land.

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Our Mission

To create a sustainable space where Afro-Brazilian traditions can thrive and educate future generations about the importance of cultural preservation, ecological agriculture, and community empowerment.

At Kilombo Tenondé, we believe education extends beyond the classroom. Through direct contact with the land, traditional practices, and cultural immersion, visitors experience transformative learning that connects past with present.

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Our Journey

16th-19th Century

Quilombos served as refuge for escaped enslaved people, establishing free, self-sufficient communities that preserved African culture in Brazil.

2015

Mestre Cobra Mansa established Kilombo Tenondé in Bahia, Brazil, with the vision of creating a living space for cultural preservation and environmental education.

2018

Launch of our international volunteer program, bringing people from around the world to learn about sustainable agriculture and Afro-Brazilian traditions.

Present

Today, Kilombo Tenondé continues growing as an ecological and cultural center, welcoming visitors, volunteers, and students dedicated to rescuing quilombola philosophy.

50+

Hectares of Preserved Land

1000+

Volunteers from Around the World

50+

Native Plant Species

9

Years of Community Impact

Our Values

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Sustainability

We practice and teach organic farming methods that respect and regenerate the land for future generations.

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Community

We believe in the power of collaboration and mutual support, creating networks that transcend borders and cultures.

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Education

We provide hands-on education about ecological agriculture, cultural traditions, and environmental sustainability.

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Culture

We preserve and celebrate Afro-Brazilian traditions including Capoeira, music, dance, and spiritual practices.

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Social Justice

We advocate for equity, inclusion, and the empowerment of historically marginalized communities.

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Connection

We foster deep relationships between people and nature, recognizing our interdependence.

Our Team

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Mestre Cobra Mansa

Founder & Director

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Coordination Team

Local Leaders

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Community Members

Residents & Farmers

Official Recognition

Kilombo Tenondé is officially recognized by the Brazilian Ministry of Culture as a certified Point of Culture (Ponto de Cultura).

Ministry of Culture Certificate
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Ministry of Culture Certification

This certification acknowledges Kilombo Tenondé's contribution to preserving and promoting Brazilian cultural heritage through education, sustainable practices, and community engagement.

The Points of Culture program (Pontos de Cultura) is an initiative by the Brazilian government to support cultural spaces that strengthen community bonds and preserve traditional knowledge.

📄 Download Certificate (PDF)