IN a move aimed at transforming Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), 47 Amerindian villages have been awarded a total of $54 million in presidential and sport development grants by the Government of Guyana. The announcement came during a ceremony at the Indigenous Peoples’ Conference Hall in Lethem, where Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, presented the cheques to village representatives.
The grants, distributed as part of the government’s ongoing commitment to Indigenous development, saw 14 villages receive Presidential Grants totalling $21 million, while 33 villages were each granted $1 million for sport development initiatives. This injection of funds is expected to create positive changes in the local economies and enhance the quality of life for residents.
Minister Sukhai, addressing the gathering of Toshaos and community leaders at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) – Regional Toshaos Conference, emphasised the government’s dedication to partnering with Amerindian villages.
“We are a lead in consultation, partnering, and engaging with Indigenous people,” she stated, underscoring the PPP/C administration’s focus on Amerindian development.
The minister’s words painted a picture of a government committed to inclusive growth, stating, “No matter what ethnic group we come from, our government is an engaging government. If we have to build a road, we have to do consultation… [so that] the people are aware of what is happening.”
This latest disbursement is part of a larger initiative that saw the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs distribute approximately $947.6 million to Indigenous villages and communities in 2023. The continuation of this program into 2024 signals the government’s long-term commitment to supporting these communities.
The conference also shed light on other ongoing investments in the region. Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag, outlined upcoming capital projects to be undertaken by various ministries, including Public Works, Agriculture, and Local Government and Regional Development.
Adding to the air of collaboration, Chairman Toshao Derrick John reminded the leaders of their crucial role in the National Toshaos Council (NTC), the legal representative body for Indigenous People.
Furthermore, the National Toshaos Council Conference of approximately 254 leaders will convene at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre for a five-day engagement with President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and government ministers in August.
