INDIGENOUS communities in Region Two are witnessing unprecedented growth and development, according to Melrose Henry, Head of the Hinterland Affairs Committee and Regional Democratic Councillor for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C).

During the July statutory meeting of the Region Two Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Councillor Henry presented her committee’s monthly report, highlighting the strides made in Amerindian villages as a result of sustained government investment.

Henry commended the success of the recently concluded National Toshao Council (NTC) Conference, where Toshaos from across Region Two expressed heartfelt gratitude for the government’s continued interventions.
“Many of the needs highlighted by the villages were met, and Toshaos returned home with fulfilled promises and renewed hope for further development,” she reported.
Among the major interventions was the delivery of a 40-horsepower engine to Ulele Primary School in St. Monica, Upper Pomeroon. The engine, requested by the community and fulfilled by the Ministry of Amerindian

Affairs, is intended to assist students commuting to school by river. Additionally, a 75-horsepower engine was provided to St. Monica Primary School after a direct request was made to the Minister.
Henry also announced that each of the 10 Amerindian communities in Region Two has received $3 million under the government’s home improvement initiative. These funds will support urgent repairs and upgrades to residents’ homes, enhancing their quality of life. A further $1 million has been allocated to each community for the development of sports grounds.

“This is a tremendous boost for our communities,” Henry said. “Residents are extremely thankful to Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo for delivering on his promises. We are witnessing transformation on a scale never seen before.”

Infrastructure development was also spotlighted, with ongoing works such as the construction of a shelter in Capoey. The structure will provide schoolchildren with protection from the rain while travelling to and from school.

Regional Vice Chairman, Humace Oodit, lauded the housing assistance initiative and stressed the importance of transparency in the execution of these projects. He called on Toshaos to monitor the implementation of works to ensure accountability at the community level.

Regional Executive Officer, Susanah Saywack, who also attended the NTC conference, echoed the enthusiasm shared by Henry and Oodit. She reaffirmed that the government’s overarching goal is to elevate living standards in hinterland communities and urged Toshaos to maximise the use of the funds for the benefit of the most vulnerable.
The update underscores the government’s ongoing efforts to bridge the development gap between coastal and hinterland regions, with Region Two’s indigenous communities reaping tangible benefits in education, housing, sports, and infrastructure.