– Labour Ministry expands training, employment opportunities

THE Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning, led by Keoma Griffith, on Tuesday, conducted a high-level outreach visit to Region One, engaging staff, regional officials, and residents during visits to the Ministry’s Port Kaituma and Mabaruma offices.
The visit formed part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its regional presence, improve service delivery, and ensure that citizens in hinterland communities benefit equitably from national development programmes.
During the visit, Minister Griffith joined the Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Sarah Browne-Shadeek, and her Legal Adviser, Ms. Mariam Ming, at a commissioning ceremony where several communities received much-needed equipment to boost local livelihoods.
Among the items handed over were boat engines, heavy-duty machinery, and caterpillar trucks, distributed to the communities of Hobedia, Morawhanna, Hotoquai, Smith Creek, Arukamai, Arau, and Lower Kaituma.

Minister Griffith emphasised that the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to empowering communities through sustainable employment and skills development.
“The investments we’re making are directly in the people – directly into all of you here,” the Minister told residents. “You all have the opportunity to take hold of these programmes to improve your lives, enhance your skill sets, and become more productive while generating income.”
Throughout the engagement, officers from the Ministry, regional programme heads, and residents discussed key issues affecting labour relations and workforce readiness in the region. Participants also offered recommendations for improving the delivery of government services and expanding training opportunities.
Minister Griffith and his team were warmly received by Regional Vice Chairman Mr. Paul Perre; Regional Chairman, Mr. Brentnol P.S. Ashley; Regional Executive Officer, Mr. Seewchan; Prime Minister’s Representative, Ms. Margaret Lambert; NDC Chairman, Mr. Keith Parker, and other regional and sub-district officials.
Expressing gratitude for the warm reception, Minister Griffith conveyed appreciation on behalf of His Excellency, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, reaffirming government’s commitment to equitable national development.
“We are working tirelessly to put systems in place that improve access to services and enhance opportunities for all citizens, regardless of where they live,” the Minister said. “Your concerns have been heard, and this government remains committed to addressing the challenges raised.”
The Region One outreach is part of a broader national strategy by the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning to promote employment, workforce training, and community-based economic growth across Guyana’s regions.