Another Amerindian community acquires vehicle through Presidential Grant

Georgetown, GINA, March 12, 2012

The small Amerindian community of Wallaba in Region One is another beneficiary of a four-wheel drive double cab Hilux pickup which was presented today to Senior Councillor Dennis John by Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai at her Ministry.

The vehicle, valued $4.2 M was funded by the village’s presidential grants for 2010 and 2011 which amounted to $1.4M along with an additional $2.8M contribution from the Government.


Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai hands over the keys to the Hilux pickup to Senior Councillor of Wallaba village Dennis John.


Wallaba is a small satellite community located in Santa Rosa village. Since it is an agricultural community the vehicle is expected to provide transportation for produce to the market.

Minister Sukhai explained that a management committee will be set up to deal with the maintenance and sustainability of the vehicle and to ensure that a driver and fuel are available.

She pledged the Ministry’s continued support to villages and communities in providing transportation and so that goods and services can be provided to these communities in a timely manner.

Senior Councillor John thanked the Government for what developments in his community. He commended both the Ministry and Government for their support in providing the vehicle and for working along with them in the village to make life easier.


The vehicle which was handed over to Wallaba village.


He stated that the vehicle will significantly reduce transportation expenses especially among parents whose children attend school some distance away. 

He stated that the vehicle is evidence of the fulfillment of a promise by Government to his community and added that it will also be used to transport patients and medical supplies to his village.