GUYANA joined the global community in celebrating World Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Friday, marking a historic milestone in the advocacy and development of Indigenous Peoples worldwide.
This day holds special significance as it commemorates the first meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1982, a momentous event that has since been celebrated by Indigenous communities and their partners across the globe.
Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, expressed her pride in sharing this message with her Amerindian brothers and sisters in Guyana and Indigenous Peoples around the world. She emphasised that the day serves as a powerful reminder of the invaluable contributions that Indigenous Peoples have made to society and the ongoing responsibility of the State to protect and promote their rights.

This year’s theme for World Indigenous Peoples’ Day, “Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact,” resonates deeply with Guyana’s commitment to the rights and welfare of its Amerindian population. While this particular theme may not directly reflect Guyana’s experience, the country recognises the importance of ongoing discussions on the subject, and is dedicated to continuing these conversations beyond the day of commemoration.
Minister Sukhai highlighted that the Government of Guyana’s development strategy has always been inclusive and engaging, with a focus on supporting the Amerindian populace through various ministries and initiatives. This includes ensuring that the rights of Indigenous Peoples are upheld, regardless of their location, in line with the country’s constitutional commitment to building a unified “One Guyana.”

The Minister outlined the government’s ongoing efforts to prioritise Amerindian development through economic stimulation, investment in youth and women, healthcare, education, leadership, tourism, agriculture, and food security. She emphasised that these initiatives are part of a broader path of development driven by the Indigenous communities themselves, with the government ensuring inclusivity and transparency throughout the process.
To equip Amerindian communities with the tools needed for sustainable development, the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs is focused on building technical and leadership capacities. Ongoing training programmes for Community Service Officers in areas such as sewing, baking, field operations, tractor maintenance, and solar installation are designed to empower individuals and enhance their ability to contribute meaningfully to their villages. These efforts aim to improve the livelihoods, social, and economic conditions of Amerindian communities across Guyana.

Looking ahead, Minister Sukhai announced that in just two weeks, all Indigenous leaders will gather with the Executive Arm of the Government to discuss the development of Guyana’s First Peoples. This unique and powerful forum fosters inclusive and transparent engagement with Indigenous representatives. Following this, the country will celebrate its annual Amerindian Heritage Month in September, a time of nationwide camaraderie as Guyanese honour their Amerindian heritage, traditions, and culture.
Minister Sukhai concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to genuine partnerships that foster equality and inclusivity while respecting and promoting the rights of Amerindians everywhere. “Happy World Indigenous Peoples’ Day,” she declared, “Let the work continue!”