CONCERNS have been raised at plans by the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) to have tourism enthusiasts make attempts to drive up the rock at Shea in the South Rupununi, a sacred landmark of the village.
On Tuesday the GTA in partnership with Rainforest Tours and Mekdeci Mining Company (MMC) launched its 4th annual South Rupununi Safari in observance of Tourism Awareness Month.

The party was expected to depart on Wednesday from the capital city with plans to trek through several indigenous communities in the South Rupununi.
However, several indigenous leaders have expressed disappointment in the plans by the GTA, mainly regarding the village of Shea. Famed Guyanese artist and archaeologist, George Simon noted that he was taken aback by news reports of the GTA’s plans while at Shea.
Simon, who is based in Uruguay, said that the Shea Rock has historically been a sacred place for the Wapishiana nation.

“I have known elders saying a prayer to it as they pass by much like the Catholics do when passing by a church,” he said.
This publication understands that Major General retired, Joe Singh has also expressed concern regarding the plans by the GTA to drive up the Shea Rock.
According to reports, Singh has informed the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs and the GTA of the sacred nature of the rock as he appealed for a cancellation of that aspect of the safari plans.
The desecration and fragile biodiversity of the rock were pointed out by the retired army chief.

Other indigenous leaders also expressed surprise at the plans by the GTA.
Residents of Aishalton, located in the South Rupununi cautioned the tourism body to respect the traditions and culture of the villages through which the safari is expected to pass.
GTA Director, Indranauth Haralsingh said Tuesday that one of the objectives of this particular safari is to give persons an opportunity to experience the outdoors, have fun and adventure, discover the picturesque beauty of miles upon miles of savannah-land, and explore little-known places south of Guyana’s interior.
The Shea Rock were a tourism landmark which remains one of the most sought-after scenes at the village. It is used for a number of sacred purposes including on Good Friday, when services are held in close proximity to the natural land formation.