Improved accessibility

− 8 hinterland communities benefit from outboard engines

DPI, Guyana, Thursday, 10 October 2019

Eight hinterland communities will now have improved accessibility as they benefitted from outboard engines from the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs. Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Hon. Sydney Allicock and Minister within the ministry, Hon. Valerie Garrido-Lowe handed over the engines during the 13th National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).

Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Hon. Sydney Allicock and Minister within the ministry, Hon. Valerie Garrido-Lowe [center] with Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Samantha Fedee along with the leaders from some of the communities, with two of the outboard engines displayed.

Toshao of Sebai, Raymond James.

The communities to receive the outboard engines include Arakaka, Sebai, Hirena, Hotoquai and Aruau from Region 1 along with Waipa, Sand Hill and Kaibarupai from Region 8. The engines, which range from 15 to 40 horsepower, are part of the government’s mission to improve the lives of the Indigenous Peoples. The engines, which cost approximately $6M, will assist in various areas for residents of the villages, especially for emergencies taking into consideration the terrain of these communities.

Toshao of Sebai, Raymond James expressed his appreciation saying: “This is our only means of transportation and we are very thankful for this.” He pointed out that it will help significantly in the education and health sectors. According to James, his community needed an engine as they have been without for the past three months. He said the last engine sank in the river following an accident and has not been recovered.

The elated Toshao said: “I feel happy to know that the government gave us a next one, and I will try my best to care it along with the cooperation of the residents.”