Govt touts investments in Indigenous communities

President Dr. Irfaan Ali today said the government has made “significant strides” in advancing the cause of Guyana’s Indigenous peoples through robust investments, particularly in education and healthcare.

He made the remarks at the opening of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) conference, held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. The annual event runs from May 19 to 23 under the theme, “Robust Governance for Sustainable Village Development.”

The gathering, which brings together village leaders from across Guyana, presents a critical opportunity for genuine dialogue and collective decision-making on the most pressing issues affecting Indigenous communities.

Ali noted several landmark developments in Indigenous communities, including in the areas of education and healthcare over the past four years, and pledged continued investment to support sustainable growth.

“We, in this government, are committed, not only to the expansion of the economy, but importantly we are committed to the expansion of opportunities in every village, in every single corner of our country, we want expanded opportunities,” Ali said. “We want to assure you that this and successive People’s Progressive Party Civic governments will continue to advance Amerindian land titling. We’ll continue to maintain the LCDS resources that will be transferred to your communities…We will continue to create more job opportunities… and you can depend on us to continue along this pathway.”

Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai said the conference is a testament to the government’s commitment to inclusive development and the advancement of its first people.

“This meeting of Amerindian leaders and the government to engage in development matters has consistently produced tangible outcomes for sustainable development for Amerindian communities and villages,” she said. “This underscores the consistent efforts of the People’s Progressive Party Civic Government adhering to the principles…community development agendas and priorities.”

NTC Chairman and Toshao of Moraikobai, Derrick John, said this year’s theme is timely and reflective of the government’s broader development strategy.

“Development is a process of change from one stage to another, and this is what we are seeing –from the coastlands to the hinterlands. Right across Guyana we are seeing changes…every sector you are seeing dramatic changes, and indigenous peoples are not left behind,” John said.

The NTC conference continues to be a platform for Indigenous voices to influence national policy and promote their rights.