AS the Government of Guyana continues on its road of fostering inclusivity and empowering the Afro-Guyanese community, 27 cultural and community organisations on Saturday received sums totalling some $48.6 million.
This funding aims to support a variety of developmental projects and underscores the government’s commitment to equitable growth and the advancement of marginalised groups.
Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, handed over approximately $1.8 million to each organisation, during a ceremony held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. He was joined by Minister of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond and Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport, Charles Ramson.
In his address, Prime Minister Phillips highlighted the government’s dedication to people-centred policymaking.
“We believe in people-centred policymaking and policy implementation. We had to ensure that we have a system in place where you can approach this government, as leaders in the African Guyanese community, and say that these are programmes, these are projects that we feel will aid in the advancement of our people,” he stated.
This funding initiative aligns with the United Nations’ International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024), which was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in Resolution 68/237 in December 2013. The initiative emphasises the importance of recognition, justice, and development for people of African descent worldwide.
The Prime Minister took the opportunity to reflect on the previous administration’s handling of similar funds, noting that a significant portion of the budget was previously allocated to administrative costs, leaving little for actual community projects.
“Today, there is no longer a large percentage of the allocation going towards administrative costs, since this cost is absorbed within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport’s operating budget,” Phillips remarked.
He stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in the execution of these projects, urging the organisations to ensure value for money and maintain open communication with the government.
“We want to hear about success. If there are any problems along the way, come back to us. We are ready to listen and to help because, we as a collective, government and you, our African-Guyanese communities, we are interested and focused in the advancement of our people, all the people of Guyana,” the Prime Minister added.
Meanwhile, Minister Walrond and Minister Ramson also echoed these sentiments, emphasising the government’s holistic approach to development and inclusivity. They reiterated that these funds should be used effectively to foster an environment of shared prosperity and progress for all Guyanese.
The organisations receiving the funds had previously submitted proposals for projects designed to empower the Afro-Guyanese community. These projects span various areas, including education, cultural preservation, economic development and community-building.
By investing in these grassroot initiatives, the government aims to create sustainable development pathways for the Afro-Guyanese population, he said.
The Prime Minister’s announcement was met with enthusiasm and optimism from the representatives of the beneficiary organisations. Many expressed gratitude for the support and pledged to utilise the funds effectively to make a tangible impact in their communities.
This latest funding disbursement is part of a broader strategy by the Government of Guyana to ensure that all ethnic groups benefit from the country’s development initiatives. By addressing historical disparities and promoting inclusive growth, the government aims to build a more equitable society.
