FOLLOWING the completion of its proceedings, the Committee of Supply of the National Assembly granted funds for the rehabilitation of the Amerindian Hostel situated on Princes Street, Georgetown.

An explanation was given by Pauline Sukhai, the Minister of Amerindian Affairs, detailing the rehabilitation project, which encompasses door replacements, restroom improvements, and overall enhancements to the residence. A total of $24 million was approved for the rehabilitation work, while an extra $45 million was allocated specifically for the construction of a kitchen and a concrete bridge at the hostel.

Furthermore, the ministry seeks to improve the standard of living and foster socio-economic prospects for the people of Guyana, allocating a substantial amount of $4.6 billion for the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF) initiative.

An allocation of $80 million was designated to promote education awareness and revise the Amerindian Act of 2006.

“The Amerindian Act is a very special act and our government has committed to ensure that we consult at every village level … The Ministry of Amerindian Affairs is awaiting the approval of the budget and we will confirm our work plan,” she disclosed when being questioned by the parliamentary opposition on its work plan.

Minister Sukhai further emphasised the projects that will be executed via the ADF.

These include the Presidential Grant programme, which would receive more than $392 million in funding, while $343 million would support economic projects, $354 million would support projects targeting women, over $742 million would advance food security in the hinterland regions, and over $132 million would boost tourism. Over $397 million was approved for infrastructure improvement.

Additionally, over $310 million would be spent on providing land transportation to Amerindian villages, while $57 million would provide water transport. Communication would receive $10 million, and $50 million would support language and cultural projects.

Over $1 billion was allocated to support Community Support Officers (CSOs) and provide them with training opportunities.

Moreover, $800 million was approved for the legal securing of lands in more Amerindian villages and $100 million for the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference. Additionally, $147 million was allocated for Amerindian Heritage Month celebrations in September.

An injection of an additional $2.7 billion in carbon credit funding would be allocated to over 200 Amerindian villages. This funding will provide support for numerous social and economic projects, enhance leadership in governance, and promote increased participation in community decision-making and other administrative activities.