Guyana has launched a nationwide humanitarian aid drive to assist thousands of people affected by the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela, with President Dr. Irfaan Ali announcing a coordinated national and regional relief effort involving CARICOM, the private sector and the country’s security services.
Speaking during a live briefing on Saturday, President Ali said Guyana is responding “as good neighbours” to one of the region’s worst humanitarian disasters, following two powerful earthquakes that have claimed at least 1,430 lives, injured more than 3,200 people and left thousands missing.
“Our neighbours, the people of Venezuela, today we are responding to one of the greatest humanitarian needs as a result of a disaster… As good neighbours, we must reach out,” the President said.
He said Guyana’s assistance will prioritise food, pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, sanitation items and essential support for children, women, the elderly and displaced families.
President Ali announced that approximately 100 containers of relief supplies have already been mobilised, including five containers of pharmaceuticals, along with rice, milk products, diapers and other essential items. He also disclosed that the private sector has provided a vessel capable of transporting up to 8,000 tonnes of relief supplies, with the first shipment expected to leave Guyana by Friday.
Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, who is leading the national relief effort, said the Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) compound on Woolford Avenue, Thomas Lands, Georgetown, has been designated as the central collection point for donations.
The Government is accepting donations from June 27 to July 1, including non-perishable food, bottled water, personal hygiene items, blankets, sleeping mats, flashlights, batteries and solar chargers. All donated items must be unopened, unexpired and in good condition.
Representatives of the Private Sector Commission also appealed to businesses across Guyana to contribute, while businessman Brian Tiwari pledged one of his company’s 1,000-tonne vessels, with a second vessel on standby if additional cargo capacity is needed.
Members of the public can make donations at the MYO facility or contact the Civil Defence Commission on 600-7500, 226-1114 or 226-1117 for further information.
