More robust development for Amerindians under PPP/C Gov’t – Min. Sukhai

The People Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government will address existing challenges in Amerindian villages. This commitment was made by Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Hon. Pauline Sukhai at the virtual launch of Amerindian Heritage Month on Tuesday.

Minister Sukhai promised that attention will be placed on financing economic and creative projects, agriculture, tourism, and increase training opportunities for youths and women.

Also, on the agenda are scholarships for tertiary education, the installation of ICT infrastructure and the reintroduction of the household solar programme.

The Minister also assured that the Amerindian Land Titling and Demarcation project will resume.

In the area of governance, Village Councils can expect closer cooperation from the government on matters of improving their management skills to advance the development of their respective villages.  Free Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) will guide the relationship between the Government and the Amerindian peoples, Minister Sukhai advised.

The preservation of Indigenous languages and the promotion of the culture and traditions of Guyana’s First peoples will also be a priority.

This year’s Amerindian Heritage Month is being celebrated under the theme ‘Fostering Traditional Practices for a Safe Environment.’ In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the activities will be hosted virtually on the National Communications Network (NCN) and Department of Public Information (DPI) as well as the Ministry’s Facebook pages every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday during the month.