THE first-ever Region 9 Amerindian Leaders Conference held at Lethem over the weekend was a watershed moment for the leaders of that community, who spent the two days brainstorming as they sought to address and come up with answers to key issues relating to the development of the region.

Held at the St. Ignatius Benab, the two-day caucus which began last Friday, had as its theme: “Focus on Positive and Sustainable Development”. It brought together more than 100 persons, including key government functionaries, Amerindian Toshaos and Councillors, as well as representatives of civil society.

Coming out of the Conference, the people of all five sub-districts of Rupununi can now look forward to having maintenance works done on the roadways within their communities, in preparation for the upcoming rainy season. The sub-districts are: Central Rupununi; South Central Rupununi; Deep South Rupununi; North Rupununi; and South Pakaraimas Rupununi.

Highlights of the conference included the swearing-in of 56 Toshaos and Senior Councillors with responsibility for the various communities and satellite communities. They were elected earlier this month. This is according to Regional Vice Chairperson, Ms. Claire Singh.

The main objectives of the conference were:

* To provide elected leaders with basic instruments for meaningful village management, and adequate scope to utilise available skills to achieve positive results

* To empower leaders to face challenges and create productive and safe communities

* To allow partnership to prevail among communities, other friendly partners and the State for the good of all citizens.

Key speakers were Minister of Amerindian Affairs Ms. Pauline Sukhai, and Minister of Local Government – Kellawan Lall. The Guyana Justices of the Peace and Commissioners of Oaths to Affidavits Association was also invited to speak on “Functions of J.Ps and COA.” Conference Chairperson was Ms. Claire Singh.

Topics addressed included: Law and Order; Disaster Management – by the Guyana Red Cross Society; Rights of the Child – by a representative of UNICEF; Poverty Reduction Strategy; Discussions on Climate Change; the Amerindian Act; and the Regional Budgeting System.

The welcome remarks were delivered by Regional Chairman, Clarindo Lucas, and the opening prayers by Pastor A. Chichester of the Seventh Day Adventist Church.