President Ali pledges support for African-Guyanese culture and youth

In a powerful affirmation of Guyana’s African-Guyanese heritage and the nation’s commitment to nurturing its youth, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Friday pledged financial support to strengthen the work of the Organisation for Social and Health Advancement in Guyana (OSHAG) and the Conga Nya Drumming Group.

The head of state made the announcement at a cultural celebration to mark the 187th anniversary of Emancipation Day, held at the New Amsterdam Multilateral School on Friday evening.

Joining him were the United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, Dr David Lammy, and India’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr Amit Telang, among other dignitaries.

Speaking directly to the organisation’s leadership and members, Ali commended their outreach and engagement with young people, describing it as “enormous.”

To support those efforts, he announced a $1 million contribution to the drumming group’s development programmes and an additional $1.5 million for OSHAG’s ambassadorial programme.

“Your ambassadorial programme is second to none,” the president said. “Your investment in young people, championing the cause of young people is most admirable. That is why we will also support your ambassadorial programme.”

OSHAG plays a central role in promoting African culture and collaborates with the Conga Nya Drumming Group. The event was organised by OSHAG in partnership with the government, through the Region Six Regional Democratic Council (RDC).

Ali also used the occasion to encourage attendees to honour the legacy of their ancestors.

“Our ancestors never had the luxury of free education or the opportunities that we enjoy today,” he said. “They endured pain so that we can now enjoy the benefits. Let us honour that sacrifice by being selfless, not selfish.”

He further urged the nation to speak out against modern-day injustices, citing the struggles of Haitians, “who paid for their freedom and still are not free.”

Several individuals who have dedicated their lives to preserving and promoting African cultural heritage were also recognised at the event. (DPI)

President Dr Irfaan Ali