–Dr. Singh says as ‘peace pole’ unveiled at New Amsterdam Park

By Bebi Shafeah Oosman

MINISTER of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, has emphasised the importance of peace and conflict prevention as a life-long commitment and endeavour and not just an occasional pursuit.
He stressed this point during an unveiling ceremony for a peace pole at the New Amsterdam Recreational Park last Saturday.

Minister Singh related that the peace pole is extremely symbolic as it serves as a reminder that peace should prevail across the world at all times.
He said: “This objective of peace and understanding, conflict prevention and conflict avoidance, is not an objective that we must only remind ourselves of when we see the peace pole, or during World Peace and Conflict Prevention Month, this is an objective that we must associate with ourselves with and commit ourselves to as a life long commitment and a life long endeavour.”

Vice President of the Rotaract Club of New Amsterdam, Molandra Simon, who spearheaded the project, shared a message of standing united under one timeless message “May peace prevail on earth.”
She said: “As we gather around this peace pole, we are not just planting a symbol in the ground, we are planting hope, commitment, and a shared vision for a better world.”
Simon said the pole represents something much more than words, noting: “it is a beacon of peace, a commitment to humanity, and an invitation for all of us to come together in the pursuit of harmony, justice, and love.”

She further advised young people: “You are the heartbeat of our future. Your energy, creativity, and unshakable belief in a better tomorrow are the very foundations upon which this peace stands. You are the torchbearers of change, the visionaries who can transform the world with the power of compassion and understanding. Never underestimate the impact you can have.”
Simon then reminded the government officials gathered that their duty is to be the protector of peace, “the builder of a just and fair society for all citizens.”

She said: “Peace does not simply come from the absence of conflict but from the presence of fairness, opportunity, and respect for all people. You have the power to create systems that uplift every individual, regardless of their background, beliefs, or status. Let this peace pole inspire you to continue working for policies that promote equality, education, healthcare, and opportunity, because when peace is embedded in the foundation of a nation, every citizen can flourish.”

Notably, the Rotaract Club of New Amsterdam’s peace pole is the first for Guyana on the world’s peacepole map.
Yuvindra Sookraj, a Director of the Rotaract Club of New Amsterdam, will be leading a blood drive which will take place in front of R. Sookraj & Sons, located at 10 Main Church Street, New Amsterdam, Region Six, on Saturday, March 8.

Blood donations play a crucial role in saving lives, as they help patients undergoing surgeries, individuals with chronic illnesses, accident victims, and those in need of emergency medical care.
With blood shortages being a common challenge, initiatives like this ensure that hospitals and medical facilities have an adequate supply to meet urgent needs.

The Rotaract Club of New Amsterdam continues to uphold its commitment to service and community welfare through impactful projects like this blood drive. Community members were encouraged to participate and donate, as every contribution has the potential to make a life-saving difference.