The Power of Unity, The Dignity of Difference

“Matawa” comes from the Cree word “Mammamattawa,” meaning “a place where many rivers come together.” It is a name chosen by our Chiefs and Elders to honour the rivers that have long served, and continue to serve, as the lifeblood of our people and communities.

Established in 1988, Matawa First Nations Management (MFNM) is a non-profit Tribal Council that brings together nine member First Nations who share common goals and a collective vision for self-determination, growth, and community well-being.

Our membership includes eight First Nations in Treaty 9 and one in the Robinson-Superior area. Five of our communities are accessible by air and winter road, while four have all-season road access. Together, our communities represent a population of more than 10,000 members.

For over 35 years, Matawa has provided strong advisory support and innovative programs that empower our communities. Over time, we have grown to include four specialized corporations that deliver services in health, education, economic development, and infrastructure. Together, we continue to build a stronger future for all Matawa First Nations.

Learn more about our corporations.

PURPOSE

Matawa First Nations Management supports nine member Ojibway and Cree First Nations through advisory services and community-driven programs. We are dedicated to ensuring quality, accountability, and responsiveness in all that we do, empowering our communities to achieve their goals and strengthen their self-determination.

VISION

Matawa First Nations will be prosperous and enriched First Nations both individually and collectively. By creating enhanced social and economic opportunities for everyone, the Matawa First Nations will reach their maximum potential and have confidence in the future.

MISSION

We are committed to supporting each other and focusing our collective efforts on core strategic priorities. By working together as a regional community, we will use our combined knowledge and resources in order to champion the social and economic vitality of our First Nations and invest in community and people building.

VALUES

Matawa First Nations Work Together

We have opportunities to grow and reach our maximum potential as a regional group. The diversity within our regional communities is valued and is a source of local and regional pride. We are proactively involved in the economic, social, cultural and political development of the Matawa territory.

Matawa First Nations are Dynamic and Sustainable Communities

We integrate modern social and economic development practices with our traditional culture and heritage. We build capacity and economic wealth for present and future generations and are well positioned to succeed in the national economy.

Matawa First Nations Uphold Quality of Life

We invest and protect our quality of life–socially, economically, culturally and environmentally to ensure that Matawa First Nations are prosperous and healthy communities in which to live, work and raise a family.