‘Cooperation and unity must prevail’ – MinisterValerie Garrido-Lowe tells Morucan’s during Republic message

Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Valerie Garrido-Lowe Thursday February 22, witnessed the hoisting of the Golden Arrow Head as Guyana celebrates its 48th Republic Anniversary.

The Golden Arrow Head was hoisted on the stroke of midnight in Santa Rosa, Moruca sub-district, Barima-Waini, Region One, which is the village with the largest indigenous population to date.

Delivering the feature address the Minister reminded residents of the significant contributions and strides this nation has made since becoming a Republic while recognizing the contributions of our forefathers.

“As we hoist the Golden Arrow Head tonight, may all of our minds acknowledge their contributions with profound gratitude. We are being carried on the backs of the legacies that they have left for us all… The decisions we make, and the actions we take, will determine how fast we develop and the greatness of our legacy. That is why we must appreciate, more than ever before, the concepts of cooperation and unity” the Minister noted.

Staying committed to the promise of a “Good Life for All”, the Minister said for this to be achieved, Guyanese must maximize the use of the country’s land and other natural resources, coupled with evolving to a level where all can think and work together with much more commitment and discipline.

“Our Republic achievement is meant to further strengthen our sense of self-sufficiency. We need to represent our Independence and continue to demonstrate innovations and collective talents – all towards real development and not just dependency and handouts”.

Speaking of significant economic and social strides made, Minister Garrido-Lowe pointed out that “we have embarked on a developmental model that puts the highest premium on the conservation and preservation of our diverse eco-system. This Model is known as the Green State Development Strategy. It is geared and designed to ensure that the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations, are achieved through environmentally friendly means”.

Speaking on the current Guyana/Venezuela border controversy the Minister said we are at a juncture when our sovereignty is at threat and noted that “the strength and faith of the Guyanese nation is put to the test, but we have always been a strong people, and your Government is confident that good faith will prevail, at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) seeing this decades-old controversy put to rest, once and for all”.

The Moruca sub-district came in for high praises from the Minister for the soon to be established “modern shopping mall you are building, and I congratulate all the businessmen and women who have both thriving businesses and small fledging ones – I congratulate you because I know how hard you have worked to achieve your dreams and are still working to do so”.

Further economic developments imminent for the area is the soon to be constructed Kumaka – San Jose Bridge, which will further boost economic activities there and the Minister assured that “in order to reduce the information gap between the Coastland and the Hinterland, your Government has been establishing radio stations in hinterland communities across the country. Saturday gone, Radio Aishalton was launched by President Granger, and discussions are taking place to establish Radio Moruca, sooner than later”.

Meanwhile, in wishing residents a Happy Republic, Minister Garrido-Lowe thanked them for the patriotism shown merely by their presence during the evening’s activities.

Meanwhile, winners of the just concluded Regional Mash Calypso competition held in the region also received their prizes and Minister Garrido –Lowe said: “you are truly exceptional”.

Before the Golden Arrow Head was hoisted Moruca’s very own talent was on display with skits and songs including appearances from winners of the Calypso competition.

Lady Paloma – Minica DaSilva copped 4th place, 3rd place went to Crazy Appachie- Sherwin Govaorus, 2nd place King Harpie – Terrence Domingo, while Lady Devotie comfortably walked away with the Regional Calypso Crown.

Minister Garrido-Lowe presented the prizes to the winners.

Also in attendance was Toshao Sherwin Abraham, AREO, Ms. Renita Williams and police officers who performed a splendid march past along with the girl guides of Santa Rosa.

In the meantime, activities will culminate on Republic Day with a Float Parade and lots to eat and drink.

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