Conselho de Desenvolvimento Comunitário de Lagoa Vânia (CODECOL)

CODECOL serves families in Lagoa Vânia, Peri-Peri and Côcos, as well as surrounding rural communities, including Sapecado and Tropeiro, in northern Minas Gerais, Brazil. It works to strengthen climate resilience, sustainable livelihoods, food security and community participation.

Over more than three decades, CODECOL has helped secure rural electrification, artesian wells, sanitation improvements, agricultural machinery, and support for family farming. These achievements have improved access to water, strengthened local production, and expanded essential infrastructure in communities affected by drought, soil degradation, poverty, and limited public services.

CODECOL is led by a new generation of community leaders. Its President, Secretary, and Treasurer are between 21 and 23 years old, and its Fiscal Council includes members up to age 31. This governance model promotes generational renewal and strengthens the participation of rural youth and women in local decision-making.

The organization connects traditional knowledge with agroecology, water conservation, environmental education, and community-based governance. Through assemblies and local partnerships, residents help define priorities and shape solutions.

CODECOL now seeks to expand water security, small-scale irrigation, agroecological production, and training for rural youth in climate governance and sustainable agriculture. Its goal is to consolidate a locally led model that can strengthen resilience across vulnerable Cerrado communities.