GUYANA’s success in improving water accessibility in indigenous communities was highlighted at the 10th Meeting of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) by the country’s representative Bertie Xavier. Xavier in his presentation to the forum noted the increased water accessibility from 19 percent to 67 percent over the last decade as government stepped up efforts to cater for the increased demand for this essential commodity by a growing indigenous population.
Having recognized the indigenous population growth, government has increased investments in the deep well system to ensure a continuous water supply throughout the year, as a replacement for the traditional shallow wells which run dry and would not have adequate water for consumption.
The use of solar driven pumps, hand pumps, wind mills and gravity feed systems are also being considered in utilising mountains that have water on the ridges and bases. Solar system with elevated water storage facilities, distribution network, construction of bore holes, rehabilitation of water supply systems and gravity systems are also among the initiatives that are being explored to ensure the rights of indigenous people to water, and access in adequate quantities in Guyana.
Over the years, the right to water has become a source of conflict and many people in the world today lack access to water and sanitation.
Xavier noted that as a result of climate change and natural disasters there is even more competition for the earth’s resources resulting in access to water resources which has sustained indigenous people for thousands of years has become difficult and is impacting on their human rights.
“Due to the demand for development, the consequence of our failure to manage our resources such as water, in a sustainable way, we are now facing major challenges,” he stated.
However, economic activities such as mining, oil exploration, and agricultural development have contributed to the contamination and pollution of water ways resulting in outbreaks of illness and other related health problems among indigenous peoples who often lack access to quality health care.
Xavier advocated for the recognition and protection of indigenous people’s cultural right to water through legislation and policy. He further noted that water is a basic human right and states are obligated to ensure that the right to water is respected and acknowledged.
“States have an obligation to protect indigenous peoples’ right to water, and where possible to prevent third parties, such as large agricultural or other development projects from polluting water ways,” Xavier said.
He said that governments need to develop strategies to promote sustainable use of water and protect and safeguard the right to water for indigenous peoples and for future generations’ consumption and ensure sustainable supply of water to indigenous communities and for the benefit of all.(GINA)