Undisputed development in Amerindian communities- Minister Sukhai

-completes four- day outreach to Region 9

Government has been investing in indigenous communities throughout the length and breadth of Guyana and this has brought about numerous developments, however people are key to the development process, Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai.

The Minister, accompanied by a team of officials from the region and the Ministry recently completed a four-day outreach to communities in the North and South Rupununi.

Minister Sukhai stated that, “It is the people who are the agents of change, if you are united and supportive of the leaders and whatever projects you embark on, you will have a positive impact,” she said. She also pointed out that no matter how small the interventions are in these communities, the investments that have been made must be sustained.

During the meetings, Minister Sukhai listened and interacted with villagers of Katoka, Annai, Shea, Pai Pang and Toka, who highlighted issues related to land extension, roads, bridges, health, education and communication.

Former Katoka toshao lauded

Minister Sukhai acknowledged the works of former Toshao Desmond Michael, who played a great part in developing Katoka and bringing the community to the standard it is today. The community is well equipped with modern facilities such as a health post, a nursery and primary schools, water supply systems and a village shop.

Minister Sukhai stated that she is contented to hear that projects are still ongoing in the village, and the boat and engine are still operational. “It is commendable; it means that you have recognised the usefulness of these equipment… you have made me happy because of how you spent the Government monies, you have made us proud,” she said.

Former Toshao Desmond Michael of Katoka, Region 9 welcomes Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai and team to the community

Residents during the interactions raised concerns with regards to electricity, roads and bridges, communication and mining.

With regards to electricity, Minister promised to include their community on the second phase of the Hinterland Electrification Programme. She also stated that the Ministry already submitted the roads and bridges estimates for consideration and is waiting for funds to embark on that project. Minister Sukhai also assured residents that the Ministry will make representation for an additional health worker to be stationed at the village, and for telecommunications companies, GT&T and Digicel, to examine the possibility of installing mobile communication equipment.

Former Toshao Michael expressed gratitude for the minister’s visit, and assured her that he will continue to work with the village leader and to further develop the community.

Shea

During an interactive session with residents, Minister Sukhai stated over the years communities have been receiving presidential grants and she expects that the investments will be put into good use.

A resident of Shea raising an issue

While residents expressed appreciation for the school uniform and sewing assistance from Government, they were also concerned about shortage of teachers since there are 217 students in the community. Concerns were also raised about drug shortage and they are asking for the community ground to be fence. Minister Sukhai promised to make representation to the respective Ministries on their behalf.

Toka requests land extension

Toka has a population of 213 residents who are mainly involved in peanuts and cassava cultivation. During the meeting, residents asked for an extension of their land for fishing, hunting and other agriculture projects. The Minister encouraged them to apply and go through the process and hopefully their request will be granted.

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai speaking to residents of Toka, Region 9

Issues were also raised about education. One resident stated that when students leave primary school there isn’t anything for them to do because Annai Secondary School only takes in students who pass the National Grade Six examination. The Minister responded by reminding residents about the “no child left behind policy” and since this is the first time the matter is being raised, she promised to make representation for them through the Ministry of Education.

Annai

Villagers of Annai raised concerns about projects (e.g. sewing groups) that are not functioning, and the One Laptop per Family (OLPF) project. She urged the Community Development Officers (CDO) to look into the first matter and deal with it at the community level.

Residents of Annai, Region 9 at the meeting with Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai and team

With regards to the laptop project, the minister stated that due to budget cuts, Government was unable to deliver on the promised OLPF distribution to hinterland communities, since they would have to make provision for a hut, electricity supply and internet access if these laptops are distributed.

Assistance for Pai Pang students

Residents of Pai Pang were pleased with the works that Government has done thus for to develop their community, however they requested a school to be built in the community because children would have to travel a long distance to reach to school in the neighbouring village.

Pai Pang, Region 9, Toshao, Kendell Francis speaking during the meeting with residents and Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai

In response, Minister Sukhai stated because the community only has approximately 40 children, the Ministry did not pursue that because a community must have a minimum of 50 students for the Ministry of Education to consider building a school. She however said that the ministry will take the responsibility to supply dietary supplies, to have students stay at the Tiger Pond teachers’ quarters for the week, attend school and return home on weekends. Parents agreed and promised to assist in wherever way they can. This process will be implemented for the new school term.