LAND titling and demarcation has been completed in yet another Amerindian community, as the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs continues to move forward with its mission to ensure equal rights for Guyana’s indigenous people. During a visit to Kariako, Region 1 last weekend, Amerindian Affairs Minister, Pauline Sukhai handed over the title document to Toshao, Lewis Samuels, granting the community absolute ownership for 51, 641 acres of land.In her address to the residents, Minister Sukhai reminded them that titling of Amerindian communities is a solid commitment of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government.

She said that like everything else, land titling has its challenges, and Kariako is no exception. However, with a united position, strong leadership and consistent representation by stakeholders and other organisations that had interest in the area, this project was a success.
Speaking on the importance of land titling and demarcation, Minister Sukhai said that this project will provide an opportunity for Amerindians to better manage, protect and improve their chances of expanding their economic activities.
“But having land title is not the end of the road,” she said. “Residents will now have to make a commitment in the utilisation of the land; it’s a significant asset to you the people, and you should not put it aside.” She said they must be able to recognise that they have this asset and be able to use it in their developmental process. “Your development challenges are not over, you have to ensure that you utilise the land for the benefit of the village and the people,” Minister Sukhai emphasised.
She said that the challenges will always be present and residents must learn to resolve the issues that come before them, in keeping with laws provided through the Amerindian Act with respect to how the community is governed.
Minister Sukhai reiterated that while Government has made a commitment to ensure that every Amerindian community is secure with respect to land, she reminded that Guyana is a multiethnic society and every citizen must benefit from the country’s resources.

Under the Guyana REDD + Investment Fund (GRIF), Government in 2013 signed a US$10.7M document for the implementation of the Land Titling and Demarcation project. Currently, four communities are undergoing the process, with 20 more due to start soon.
In 2016, 20 other communities are due to have their lands demarcated and titled.
This programme which is expected to be completed by the end of 2016 will see a total of 45 villages being demarcated and titled. (GINA)