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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 28, 2017
A A Guyana Guyana Chronicle Chronicle special special In celebration of
Indigenous Heritage Month 2017
‘Guyana’s First Peoples: Sustaining a rich cultural environment’
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 28, 2017
Taking agriculture to the next level --beyond the regular cassava processing
By Ravena Gildharie AGRICULTURE has always been the mainstay of economic survival among Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples, but over the last decade or so, farming and food production have evolved beyond merely cassava processing activities to an advanced food value chain, from methods of cultivation, agro-processing to packaging and marketing. With the support of the government, international donor partners, non-governmental organisations and the private sector, Indigenous communities from Waini to the Rupununi are spearheading numerous agricultural ventures countrywide. Processed products are readily available in city supermarkets, and the majority are export-certified. In the communities, most of the agro-processing is women-led, but integrate almost all residents, especially local farmers. And in some areas, it is strategically tailored to benefit children, via the school-feeding programme.
PEANUT BUTTER In the North Rupununi, the Aranaputa Processors Friendly Society is an award-wining community group producing packaged peanut butter at a factory established in 2010 under a project by the governments of Guyana and Canada, led by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).
gramme gave rise to an integral market, too, since the Village Council and the Ministry of Education signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for supplies to local schools. The factory stores peanuts purchased regularly from local farmers, and since it also produces cassava bread and biscuits, the group is a main
Kwatamang farmers with produce (Guyana Chronicle file photo)
The plant has the capacity to produce 100 pounds of peanut butter per day, and in the past, the group reported output of 100, 000 pounds per week sold to retailers. The school-feeding pro-
market for cassava producers. With regard to marketing, the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (New GMC) and the Women Agro-Processors Development Network (WADN), which is spearheaded
by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), are Aranaputa’s main support partners. The peanut butter is available at the New GMC Shop on Robb Street, while WADNet offers a range of support, from technical and financial advice to training and advocacy for markets and service expansion. Similarly, in the Central Rupununi, the Helping Hands Women’s Group of St Ignatius also produces peanut butter and cassava biscuits and bread. Their products are packaged, too, and sold at the GMC Shop. CASSAVA PROCESSING At Wowetta, the women’s agro-processing group is involved in cassava processing, producing mainly farine, cassava bread, casreep and tapioca. The community is home to one of several cassava factories set up in hinterland communities. Priscilla Torres, who previously headed the group until a few months ago when there was an election, told this publication that farine is the main product, and business is doing well so far. The factory, built in 2015, can produce between 3-4000 pounds of farine per day, but the group currently sees yields of at least 1000 pounds per batch, with production done two to four times per month. It is equipped with all production components except a solar dryer, which the group is seeking to acquire soon.
Torres highlighted that the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) is a main support partner to the group and community. Looking ahead, the group aims to sustains the business operations and expand production in the long-term to include cassava, eddoe, potato and plantain flour.
Packaged peanut butter produced by the Aranaputa Processors Friendly Society (Guyana Chronicle file photo)
Through WADNet, the group has been able to benefit from a lot of training in the Caribbean and United States as well as locally on issues as food production, agro-processing, packaging, labelling, marketing, business management and food-safety compliance. TAPAKUMA MISSION Another cassava factory is pioneering development at Tapakuma Mission in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam). That women’s group produces
Aranaputa Processors Friendly Society Processing Facility (DPI photo)
The group strives to ensure, too, that there is always 10, 000 pounds of farine in stock and therefore operates the factory daily. The products are sold across Guyana and in neighbouring Brazil, while the group is currently working to get its export-certification to have the packaged farine available on supermarket shelves. Torres noted that the most cassava the group has purchased from farmers was 3100 pounds, while the least was 2600 pounds. There are about 10 cassava farmers in the community, with each cultivating the least oneacre plots. Acoushi ants, extensive weather conditions and caterpillar infestation are some of the farmers’ challenges, but
“Also, there is the CDP Project where farmers planted 10 acres of cassava and 10 acres of peanuts, so we buy from that farm too, which we call the community’s farm,” she added. The group still produces the regular cassava bread, cassareep and ‘quinches’ a cassava-meal sandwich that contains
cassava biscuits flavoured with garlic and hot peppers branded by the Rising Sun Products Enterprise. According to its treasurer, Vanessa Wong, villagers were growing and processing cassava for years, but after the factory was renovated three years ago, Rising Sun was formed to manage production. The women produce twice per month at the factory, processing about 500 pounds of cassava per week during each cycle. They provide a steady market for the local farmers. “We buy from about 20 farmers in the community. We try to rotate the purchase, too, to ensure that all of the farmers benefit from our processing activities,” Wong said.
flavoured processed coconut. “The ‘quinches’ product is doing well so far, because we have noticed that more people who know about it like to eat it, and are buying it more than the other cassava products,” Wong said. SUN-DRIED TOMATOES Meanwhile, one of the hinterland’s most recent agricultural ventures is the Paramakatoi Tomato Project Facility, which will produce sun-dried tomatoes as an ambitious move towards agro-processing and value-added production for the Potaro-Siparuni region (Region Eight). The project, which took some G$59M to get off the ground, was funded in the main by the Guyana Government. It also received a G$5M grant from the Canadian High Commission. What followed were consultations in the community, which saw residents taking ownership of the project and making their own inputs into the project design. With NAREI providing the seedlings, it was expected that 24, 000 seedlings would have been planted in time for harvest and processing. According to the Institute’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Oudho Homenauth, the venture is intended “to ensure continued food security and enhancement of livelihoods of all hinterland residents.” He said there were a number of ongoing projects, including rice production in Monkey Mountain, shaded agriculture, production of spices, especially in Region One targeting turmeric and ginger, while potato and onion cultivation are forging ahead in Regions Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) and Eight.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 28, 2017
Living the simple life --in Deep-South Rupununi
By Michel Outridge JOYCE Lawrence would not have it any other way than living in her Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) hometown of Aishalton, a place she describes as peaceful, except that life there entails hard work and dedication. This Deep-South Rupununi village is home to about 5,000 residents of mostly Wapishana People, many of whom earn their living by farming mainly peanuts or engaging in mining. Ms Lawrence, a mother of two, told the Guyana Chronicle that she was born and raised in the village, and has no intention of relocating as that’s where she calls home. From time to time, she would journey to the city to make purchases for her fellow villagers, and would in turn bring out their produce to sell. She first came to Georgetown, she said, when her sons had to at-
tend secondary school. She doesn’t regret it, because they have grown to become educated young men, who are standing at her side to assist with the family business of farming and tending their small shop. She is one of the many Amerindians who travelled from far-flung villages across Guyana’s hinterland to participate in the Amerindian Heritage Village activities at the Sophia Exhibition Centre. Lawrence, who is fluent in her native Amerindian language, was vending farine products with wild meat when the Guyana Chronicle caught up with her. Of course, she also had on sale such Amerindian alcoholic beverages as “Fly” and “Paiwari”. These drinks are made of the black potato and cassava grown on the farms of Guyana’s First Peoples who reside in the interior locations. A WAY OF LIFE She told this newspaper that farming is a way of
life in Aishalton, where they grow the cassava from which they make farine, which is an Amerindian staple that is usually accompanied by various meats. Lawrence related that farine can be used as a cereal, to make porridge, or as a substitute for rice. She explained that because the area foesn’t have electricity, they have to preserve their meats by soaking them in salt water before laying them out to dry in the sun. Lawrence said the meat, which is primarily beef, can be stripped and used in cook-up rice, or boiled to make soup or stew. She said that other meats such as deer, labba, wild hog and fish are also sun-dried to be preserved for long periods, due to the lack of refrigeration. Lawrence said that whenever she visits the city, she would bring out the produce of her fellow villagers to sell, and in turn take in much-needed groceries such as cooking oil, kerosene oil, clothing and
Joyce Lawrence displays the farine products she had on sale earlier in the month at Amerindian Heritage Village in Sophia (Delano Williams photo)
school supplies. She said the reason she does that is because there aren’t any official marketplaces in the Rupununi. Most of the villagers she helps out, she says, have never been to Georgetown before. She said she would go out of her way to assist her fellow villagers in any way possible, because that’s how they they live; in unity as a village. She runs a small shop from her home, where she prepares and sells all Amerindian foods. She also sells stationery among other items, all at affordable prices. Aishalton is about 130 miles from Lethem, and home to the Wapishana Peoples. There are six other Amerindian villages in the Deep South of Rupununi near Aishalton. Lawrence said that every year, she always looks forward to September month which is dedicated to celebrating Amerindian Heritage, so she could visit the city and showcase her cooking skills by having a variety of Amerindian foods on sale at the Sophia Exhibition Centre.
Pakuri roots for Cassie Junor --as Miss Indigenous Heritage pageant draws near
SHE believes that education will always be the key to a fruitful future, and in the eyes of St Cuthbert’s Mission teacher, Cassie Junor, adopting a skill in today’s developing world is a must, especially for young women.
Junor is in her late teens, and the reigning Miss Pakuri is set to represent Region Four in this year’s Miss Indigenous Heritage Month pageant in another few days. She said that as a member of the only Indigenous reservation in Region Four
(Demerara/Mahaica), she was selected to represent the region in the pageant which is held during the month-long celebrations . The pageant is hosted every two years during September. Junor, who is a national Under-19 volleyball player, told the Guyana Chronicle during a recent visit to St Cuthbert’s Mission that she is receiving valuable support from the village as she prepares for the pageant. Not only has the village council appointed someone to design her costume, but it also has someone assisting her with preparations for the question-and-answer segment. She said that she is preparing to act out a dramatic piece, based on her culture on pageant night. “I was a part of the National Drama Festival last year, and we were in the tops,” Junor said, adding that she and her colleagues acted in the play, “Healing Power”, which was centered on comparing the lifestyle of today’s Indigenous Peoples with that of those of yesteryear. Her platform is “Education is the key to our future”.
The St Cuthbert’s Mission Secondary teacher noted that the platform is right up her alley, as she has always wanted to be an educator, mainly so she can assist her village in the future in terms of developing its academic potential. She plans to attend the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) is all goes her way in 2018.
difficult, mainly the preparation process, for the exams. She said not many persons are keen on going back to the village to teach, but she noted that the older folks in the village provide much-needed support to students. Her advice to young women, including those in the village, is to think about their lives and whether they wish
Junor said that education is critical for the village, since there are not many job opportunities for persons who have a limited education. She recalled that when she wrote the Caribbean Secondary Edcuation Certificate (CSEC) exams, there was no English teacher in the village to teach the class, and it was
to be stuck as a housewife or embark on furthering their studies or achieve a skill. “Most young women would start a family; and that’s it for them,” the assertive Junor said. In her spare time, Junor plays volleyball, and even represented Guyana on the national Under-19
team in 2014 in Suriname at the Inter-Guiana Games. She also likes
children, and as such she spends much of her time in their company.
Cassie preparing to go on a hunt!!
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 28, 2017
Welcome to Micobie
--where residents still keep the faith, in spite of falling gold prices By Alva Solomon THE sun’s scorching heat blistered the treacherous roadway ahead. Here at Micobie, the roads waver up and down the hilly geographic layout of this Region Eight village.
to his feet and away from the company of a few villagers near his home. He led the way across the playfield to the home of his deputy. Along the way, the hospitality of the village of 550 Patamona descendants was evident, as from the
out if the Village Council is given the “full rights” to its 22 square miles of land by the relevant authorities. How exactly does Micobie benefit from mining? Mining has been an economic activity for decades, dating back to the 1950s, a former village leader
seen a drop in the figures, an outcome attributed to the fluctuation of gold prices on the world market. “The gold value hasn’t helped us,” Andre said. “This village had many good from mining; and the mineral is always there.” Villagers would also carry out their own mining practices, using the manual tools such as a “battel” and a shovel. SUBSISTENCE FARMING Like most villages in the hinterland, families at Micobie are engaged in subsistence farming, a form of agriculture in which the produce is utilised by the family. Cassava and other ground provisions and fruits are planted in the rich soil at the village, and on occasion, villagers would sell “farine”, a staple derived from the cassa-
The Micobie Village Office, where all village-related matters are sorted out
to time. He, however, noted that one of the major issues the Council faces is the lack of
perform better at the secondary school level. He said the village is
The playfield at Micobie. The two buildings in the distance are the vaillage’s primary and nursery schools
Ahead, a man can be seen jogging along the roadway, a sight which seemed odd, given the heat and time of day. “ Yo u f i n d t h a t h e r e steady,” said the taxi driver as he navigated loose pieces of rocks down a hill in his Toyota motorcar. And with Micobie being less than a mile away, the rattling sounds of the car’s body made it seem as if the driver was in a mighty hurry to reach the river-side village.
youngest child to even an intoxicated man extended “good morning” greetings. THRIVES ON MINING Mining helps this community,” Toshao Andre said. It’s an economic activity which has been the backbone of the economies of most hinterland villages. Micobie is located approximately two hours by road from Mahdia, the seat of
who worked with mining companies in the Potaro recalled. He said the village thrived on the activity in those days, which may be how persons came to settle there. After the village received its title from the authorities in 2006, the settlement was receiving significant income from the sector. Through an arrangement, the Village Council receives 10% of all “wash downs”, a practice in
The “Three-mile bridge”, which is in dire need of repairs (Photos by Alva Solomon)
va, to the mining communities in the area. Across the sandy playfield, a group of children were playing under the benab, a noticeable structure at the village. As the heat sank into the roof of the benab, a group of women selling dry goods nearby bargained with a customer. Andre said that the Council permits persons to do business in the village from time
advancement of the education abilities of their children. A Council member noted that when a male attains a certain age, he opts to go into mining rather than furthering his education. “That’s where you find people from this village don’t really reach far. We need to reach a certain standard,” the councillor said, adding that there is need for students to
The village meeting place
As the car neared the village, the heads of the few persons who were visible in the distance suddenly disappeared, an occurrence that is typical of most Indigenous villages. “They hiding, but they seeing you and me,” said the taxi driver as he stopped his car at the toll booth at the entrance to the village. After paying the entrance fee, the car headed to the home of the village’s leader. “Welcome to Micobie,” said Toshao John Andre as he rose
administration of Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni). The village lies on the bank of the Potaro River, the waterway which leads to the famous Kaieteur Falls. And while all seemed peaceful and quiet, it faces a mining issue that worries the Village Council. The Council has been battling with miners who operate in the area, mainly those who wrought environmental damage upon the village’s beautiful landscape. The problem, Andre noted, is one that can be sorted
which the miner and his employees scour the sluice boxes for the smallest piece of gold nugget. During the exercise, a member of the Village Council overlooks the operation, and after the “wash down”, the 10% is calculated based on the findings. But times have become difficult at Micobie. “In the past we had plenty gold, but not now; the village used to really get good outcome from royalties,” Andre said. This year, the village has
The village shop
working to ensure the parents place more emphasis on education. “Education exalts a nation. So, yes, it is important,” he said. The village is also working to have the Patamona language taught in school, a feat which the Council believes will enable its people to enhance their abilities culturally and economically.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 28, 2017
Pakuri: The ‘Culture Capital’ --of Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples By Ravena Gildharie AS locals and foreigners alike from all walks of life and locations gathered at St Cuthbert’s Mission on September 9 for this year’s National Indigenous Village Celebrations, President David Granger promised to approve the village’s request to be renamed ‘Pakuri’. It was sweet music to the ears of the 1500 residents who call the predominantly Arawak community home, and who remain proud and true to their buoyant Indigenous history, culture and heritage. The name-change, according to Toshao Lennox Shuman, is very important to residents as a form of identity left by native ancestors who initially called the village Pakuri. Its name was changed during the colonial period in honour of the first Anglican priest who arrived in the community on St. Cuthbert’s Day. Pakuri is situated on the left bank of the Mahaica Creek and accessible by a trail that connects to the Soesdyke-Linden Highway. Most residents are involved in farming, mining, forestry and craft making.
Children enjoying the supply of potable water in the village
Oswald Hussein and Lynus Klenkian are famously branded as Lokono artists of Pakuri. A MODEL VILLAGE In an era when other Indigenous communities, especially those situated close to the coastland, are grappling to hold on to their native roots, Pakuri still appears to be a model village for preserving its Lokono culture and traditions. It is perhaps the only village in which native language is taught to youths and young children in a classroom-like environment led by local language tutor, Leeyland
according to Toshao Shuman, will be used to boost tourism as a secure, recreational facility to host overnight guests. The benab was built by residents who volunteered their labour, which has helped reduce costs, and forms part of the Village Council’s direction, to be more creative in funding of community development projects. “We want to reduce the dependency syndrome,” Shuman said. “Instead of depending on handouts, we have to be creative to do things.” He led the Council to repurpose use of several community buildings, so as to better serve and position the community as a model of structured and efficient local governance and
Pakuri Village Council Office undergoing a facelift
self-help initiatives. The craft shop has been converted into the Village Council Office and would also become an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) hub for Internet and e-governance services. There are also plans to establish a company website for craft producers to market under a community brand, operating out of the newly-aligned craft and welcome centre. Shuman’s vision entails a community archive to document and record Pakuri’s historic documents like past community projects and contributions of residents and leaders. LIFE IN PAKURI The former village office has since been converted to
Thomas Shuman standing in front of his chicken pen
The only Amerindian community in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Pakuri is known as the ‘Culture Capital’ of Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples. It is famous, too, for producing many of Guyana’s most skilled sculptors and artists who have carved their creativity into award-winning regional and international fame. Names like Telford and Roland Taylor, George and Foster Simon,
Klenkian. It also hosts one of the largest annual heritage celebrations, attracting over 2500 patrons each year. This event is the highlight of the year, where residents capitalise on economic opportunities and also showcase and market their talents, foods, craft and agricultural produces. The community recently built a huge new benab, which,
Toshao Lennox Shuman trying out instruments acquired for Pakuri’s music programme
a music centre, where residents would be taught music in their native language, and from which a community band would be formed. Already, over one million dollars’ worth of musical instruments have been purchased for the programme. Shuman, a pilot by profession, returned to live and serve the village less than three years ago, hoping to make a change for the benefit of all residents. But what is life like for villagers now? “Life is good,” according to 46-year-old Roxanne Kattow, a housewife, craft producer and subsistence farmer who was born and raised in Pakuri. Some days she is on her farm tending to her ground provisions, which she sells to residents. On other days, she is at home, skillfully crafting, from straw and wire, native-inspired bowl sets, headwear, earrings, costumes, hats and other items. “Once you willing and can do something to make money, you can live happy here,” Kattow said. At 27, Reeya Andrews is also a housewife, shop owner and poultry farmer. A mother
of two, Andrews got married to a fellow villager and remained with her family in Pakuri. “We hear people complaining about how hard life is in other places,” she said, “but for us, it is not so hard here.” On weekends, she closes shop and heads to the playfield for a game of volleyball or cricket with other villagers. Thomas Shuman is a poultry and subsistence farmer, who worked many years with several of the big mining companies in other regions before he retired. His children are now all grown and relocated from the village, but to him, his heart and home belongs to Pakuri. LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT Like Shuman, Christiano Oselmo spent 33 years of his life working outside of the village as a surveyor. He was born and raised in Moruca, in Region One (Barima-Waini). He came to Pakuri in 1950 with a group of missionaries and found love, which rooted him to village unto this day. His wife is a handicraft producer. It was love that also brought Iverene Shuman from Blairmont, Berbice, to Pakuri in 1976. She was a local midwife who met her Lokono husband when he worked in Berbice. “When I came here to live, it was sheer bush. There was no transportation, no cars, and we had to walk in or climb on tractor that coming in the village,” Iverene recalls with a smile, later observing the gamut changes since then, and optimism that betterment would continue.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 28, 2017
Mapping Indigenous territory --using the latest in technology ever, it was recognised that there was a lack of adequate information in communities for residents to participate on a level playing field. He posited that “education is key to participation,” and efforts were focused on making sure Indigenous People are knowledgeable and can make an input in the discourse on the process.
The training of Indigenous youth in the use of drones (Michael McGarrell photo)
By Ravena Gildharie DEEP in the heart of Guyana’s most remote communities, residents are using advanced smartphone technology and drones in conducting land tenure assessments to establish their territories, identify boundaries, distinguish and label traditional landmarks, and have these all defined and recorded on digitised mapping systems. One of the persons spearheading these activities is Michael McGarrell, an Indigenous Peoples advocate, and member of staff of the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA). Originally from Chenapou Village in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), McGarrell, who is from the Patamona nation, is currently in the United States on a three-week International Visitors Leadership Programme sponsored by the U.S. State Department. The exercise includes visits to various sites having to do with the environment and biodiversity, and the experience is expected to significantly aid his work here in Guyana. He started working with the APA in 2014 under an initiative to ensure that Indigenous People have effective
participation in the Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) of the Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade process (FLEGT). The APA received funding for the awareness activity from the European Union in 2014, and according to McGarrell, the Association has so far been very successful in
DON’T HAVE A SAY According to McGarrell, “We recognised that many times, Indigenous People are bypassed and don’t have a say in the shaping of policies and programmes, whether it is good or not good for them and their communities.” He added: “Many times, the Indigenous People don’t have a voice, and projects are pushed ahead without their involvement.” During its work on the ground, mainly in Regions One (Barima-Waini) and Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), the APA formulated that Indigenous Peoples were not
latter is still to be published. McGarrell explained that this activity involved going into the communities to collect information on territories, historical sites, sacred places, boundaries and markings etc. This study is conducted by researchers from the community, with supported from the APA and it’s partners. Local persons are trained in research techniques, and they are the ones collecting the information from the communities. Later this year, the study will be conducted in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni). DIGITISING MAPS The overall objective is to convince policy makers, with tangible evidence, to recognise customary lands and territories that have been known through generations. In many cases, known rivers and creeks are renamed or omitted from State maps, much to the dissatisfaction of Indigenous residents, who would have known and observed the territories for cen-
Michael McGarrell hard at work
McGarrell highlighted. The APA has also received funding support for these activities from the United Kingdom’s Department for International Development (DFID), the European Union and the Norwegian government. Other activities include support for the establishment of community district coun-
Land tenure assessments include mapping territories in Indigenous communities
bringing awareness to people in hinterland communities on the FLEGT VPA. The APA recognises the FLEGT VPA as “something good for Indigenous communities,” as it seeks to reduce illegal logging, and encourage sustainable management of forests and resources. How-
Chiung Mouth, Region 8
consulted enough, and that their issues, concerns and recommendations were not being treated seriously by the governing Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC). In some instances, too, there had been poor communication. Also, because the communities are far-flung, residents are unable to access directly the GFC and other policy-making bodies. The APA has since been taking residents’ issues and concerns and crafting them into technical language before forwarding them to the GFC and the National Technical Working Group for action. To date, there have been some strides in adding the Indigenous voice through the APA exercise. However, much more needs to done to ensure international standards are met, McGarrell reported. Studies on Indigenous lands and land tenure assessments have also been conducted and completed in Regions One Two and Eight, but the
turies. Using the government basemaps as a tool, the assessments include sketch mapping, with territories defined as known to Indigenous Peoples and thereafter digitising same, also using local language in the naming of significant places. Based on claims that surveyors are often reluctant to traverse certain Indigenous terrains such as swamps during the land titling demarcation process, young Amerindians are been trained in mapping and using geo-referenced photographs, global positioning systems and drones to help in establishing the layout of their communities. “The whole idea that communities are being able to use technology to map their communities and to advocate for lands and territories with tangible evidence is a bold move, as, many times, outsiders are not familiar with local names of places that residents use in identifying places,”
cils, through which various villages with similar geography and issues are partnering to highlight and address their problems in a more unified approach. To date, these groups have been resuscitated in the Pakaraimas, Upper Mazaruni and South Rupununi.
A former teacher and currently third-year University of Guyana student pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Management and Technology, McGarrell is also on the Directive Council of the Coordinator of Indigenous Peoples Organisations of the Amazon Basin (COICA), which was created in March 1984, and comprises nine countries that make up the Amazon Basin. As a teacher, he was one of the founding members of the Mahdia Secondary School during 1998, and worked there for five years. At the time, the lone secondary school in the region was at Paramakatoi, while in Mahdia and surrounding areas, there were many children of secondary school age who were unable to attend school due to the distance. It was McGarrell’s first public venture and service to his community and people. “I believe, as an Indigenous person, my purpose is to help my fellow Indigenous brothers and sisters for future generations. My life is committed to ensuring the rights of Indigenous People are protected and respected,” said the Indigenous advocate, husband and father of three.
Using mobile technology in the hinterland
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 28, 2017
Come fly the friendly skies --with Julian DeFreitas, Santa Mission’s first flight attendant
By Ravena Gildharie GROWING up in the tranquil Santa Mission, Julian DeFreitas dreamt of one day working in the international aviation industry. Some of her peers felt it was a big dream for a young girl from an Indigenous community, but Julian was unmoved. Today, she is a qualified Flight Attendant with Fly Jamaica, serving all of the airline’s international routes, Guyana, Jamaica, New York and Canada. “Ideally, my long-term goal is to become a pilot,” she says. Cognisant of the hefty funding required for such a profession, she believes that her current post is an initial step towards realising her goals. As an Amerindian, Julian is proud of her Indigenous heritage and her humble upbringing in Santa Mission, which she feels molded and helps to maintain her cheerful personality, a big plus for the job she holds. “No matter how challenging it is some days, I always pass it off with a smile, and try to be as courteous and kind as possible,” Julian said. “I have always been an easy-going and cheerful
Julian DeFreitas
person; I don’t take things personal. And as an Indigenous person, I think these qualities are important too,” she added.
Growing up, she enjoyed participating in many of the community’s cultural activities that showcased native dances, songs, food, craft and traditional wear. In her teenage years, she temporarily relocated to the East Bank Demerara to attend secondary school, thereafter graduating with several Grade Two and Three passes at her sitting of the Caribbean Secondary Examination Council (CSEC). She then took up employment at the Arrowpoint Resort, located within range of her native community. From there, she moved on to other operations of the Roraima Group of Companies in Georgetown and at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timerhi.
She advanced her tertiary studies and secured a Diploma in Human Resources Management, later gaining a job as Senior Clerical Assistant with the CJIA Corporation in the Security Department. She worked there for three years, and gained as much knowledge about aviation and related issues. But she kept yearning to serve on the aircraft. So, in 2016, she applied for Fly Jamaica’s Flight Attendant Training. Much to her delight, she was selected among a batch of 19 Guyanese for training in Guyana and Miami, in the US. The theory was taught at the Eugene Correia International Airport, Ogle, while the practical and safety
function sessions took place at the PanAm International Flight Academy. “The training was very intense, so much so that
being certified for permanent service. “I currently serve on all of Fly Jamaica’s routes. I usually do about two to three
In traditional Indigenous wear
In Canada
during my first week, I almost quit and came back home,” Julian said, adding: “There were daily exams, and in between, we were being taught so much information, we had little to no time to prepare for the tests. “However, it was worth it all, because we gained a lot of knowledge, and we realised how important it is for us to know all these things. It is safety and people’s lives we are dealing with, so we have to be highly prepared.” Julian was the only trainee of the batch from a hinterland community in Guyana. After training, the attendants were placed on a six-month probationary service before
flights per month, so sometimes I am back and forth between flights, spending one to two days at home, based on my rotation schedule,” Julian explained. She enjoys exploring new places and meeting and gaining insights from different people from all parts of the world. Her advice for younger Indigenous persons is: “You can achieve anything you want in life, but you have to remain humble, be kind and demand respect. “Don’t think that anyone owes you anything; you have to work and present yourself professionally for what you want to achieve.”
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‘Downtown Tuma’
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 28, 2017
--Living the dream with Angela Williams
By Alva Solomon SHE has been working hard over the years to establish a business of her own, one that promotes her culture. And for Angela Williams, cooking and selling Amerindian foods is a dream she enjoys. Angela trades her foods under the name, “Downtown Tuma” or “Downtown Eats”
, a business which was established earlier this year to serve customers with a longing for Amerindian dishes. The business is located at the Courtyard Mall on Robb Street, in downtown Georgetown, where the former Jerries Fast Food operated from. The business is open daily, except on Sundays, from 10:00hrs. “It is a challenging some-
thing, but I like doing it because it is our way of life,” Angela said during a recent interview. The business environment can be difficult, Angela explained, as there are other eateries in the area which sell regular foods. “But mine is different,” Angela said. “I do not only want to satisfy the Indigenous People but any Guyanese who wishes to
Angela at the restaurant recently (Samuel Maughn photos)
sample the traditional Amerindian foods,” she added. She said that she prepares her foods by herself, while an assistant would work alongside her at the restaurant, mainly taking care of foods at the eatery. According to Angela, she started cooking since her youthful years at the village of Wiapa in the Potaro-Si-
got this offer to sell in Robb Street,” she said. She said that initially, she had a partner, but she later took on the market herself, as things didn’t quite work out the way they wanted. “It ain’t easy out here,” was all she said by way of explaining why the two parted company. She said that she has several options in order to ex-
A sample of the food at “Downtown Tuma”. Cassava Breadwith Tuma and a drink of “Fly” Wine
paruni where she grew up. She said that her family then moved to Mahdia, the region’s capital, and much later to another location along the Potaro Road. Angela then moved to the city to further her studies, and as time progressed, she tried her hands at various forms of work until she decided to return to the job she knew well: Cooking. She said she was among the founders of the “Tuma Sala” restaurant which had opened its doors several years ago in Kitty. But as time progressed, the business faltered, mainly because of the location among other issues. After leaving “Tuma Sala”, Angela took a break from cooking, but early this year, she received a proposal from a friend about cooking once more. “I used to cook and sell foods like Cassava Bread and Tuma and any wild meat from my home, but I
pand her business. One such step is advertising. Angela noted that although many persons have visited her business place to dine, many persons are still familiarising themselves with the eatery. In addition, she noted that she will be adding variety to her foods, as customers have been asking for various Indigenous foods. Sourcing the wild meats can be a challenge, Angela noted, but she plans to work on several options in that regard in order to satisfy her customers. The month of September has been busy for Angela, since the heritage events have seen her moving her sales to the various venues where the events are being held in the city. “It was a good month, and I will be working to have a variety at Robb Street,” Angela noted as she follows her dreams of serving Indigenous foods to the Guyanese public.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 28, 2017
‘It’s a place like no other!’
--says Evelyn Felix of her native Kato Village By Michel Outridge EVELYN Felix is a resident of Kato Village in Region 8 and a craft-maker by profession, in that everything she makes is of a high quality and hand-made. Life in the interior, according to the mother of seven, is not easy and poses a lot of challenges. Which is why she was forced to come to the city years ago, so she could do better by her children. Most of her children, she said, are now grown and have since been married. They also work in the city, which would make it difficult for them to return to Kato, since jobs are not easy to come by there. “All my children have married and are working in the city; only one is still in the interior. I am here in town, because I have to help take care of my grandchildren, but my real home is in Kato,” Ms Felix said. Most people make their living by planting things like black-eyed peas, onions, gar-
lic, mountain rice, peanuts, cabbages and other vegetables, the 61-year-old told the Guyana Chronicle. Other than farming, which is long hours of back-breaking work, she said, there is nothing else one can do to make a living, except for making craft products. She specialises in making things like the matapee, traditionally used by Amerindians to squeeze the milk out of the cassava; the warashee, a kind of haversack used to fetch things in; all-purpose food stands; headdresses and clay ornaments. She makes most of her items from the feathers of the powis bird, fruit seeds and other materials found in Amerindian villages. Craft-making, she said, can be very time-consuming; a tedious process that can take days to piece together a headdress or a chain. Besides, it’s a job that you have to like doing, as it can get tiresome at times.
She also spoke of the hardships of living at Kato, due to the remoteness of the community; what it’s like living without electricity and having to do whatever you can before sundown; of schoolchildren having to rely on makeshift flambeaus to do their homework and to study. She tries to take in such things as clothes, salt, cooking oil and other basic food items for relatives and close friends still living there whenever she can. She tries to make that journey around April and August every year. “Interior life is hard; and other than farming, there is nothing else to do except go into mining,” she said. “And that is why many youths come to Georgetown to enhance their lives.” But in spite of all the hardships, she said, she wouldn’t trade Kato for the world. It’s the serenity, she says, that gets to you. “It’s a place like no other!” she said. “It’s nature at its best!”
Evelyn Felix wearing one of her hand-made chains and headdresses (Photo by Delano Williams)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 28, 2017
Meet the delegates --in the Miss Indigenous Heritage 2017 Pageant AS part of Heritage month celebrations, ten young ladies will vie for the crown in the Miss Indigenous Heritage Pageant, billed for the National Cultural Centre (NCC) on Saturday night. The event, which occurs every two years, is scheduled to begin at 19:00hrs, and patrons are expected to be thrilled by the performances from the delegates. Tickets for the event are available at the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, the NCC, and during the weekend-long Heritage Games. Tickets Cost $1,000, $2,000 and $3, 000. Those representing the ten administrative regions are as follows:
REGION ONE: Rose Brescenio A proud member of the Warrau Nation, 19-year-old Rose hails from Little Kanaballi Creek, in the village of Santa Cruz in the Moruca Sub-district. The fifth of eight children, Rose likes listening to music, singing, and making new friends. She aspires to become a teacher. One of her favourite foods is Cassava Bread w i t h a hot pot of
Tuma, and a tall, sweet glass of Fly. She also enjoys a good game of football with friends. Her favourite number is one, because she loves being at the top.
REGION TWO: Narefa Allicock Proudly representing her Region, this 18-year-old Lokono hails from Capoey Village on the Essequibo Coast. Ms Allicock, who is a second-year student of the University of Guyana, is pursuing a Diploma in Social Work with the aim of completing a Bachelors Degree and later a Masters in Psychology. She likes reading, taking long walks, swimming, and a good game of cricket. She loves nothing better than chowing down on some good ol’ Cassava Bread with Kadakura Sauce and Toroo drink. She doesn’t know why, but she just loves the colour maroon. REGION THREE:
Selina George Selina is a descendant of both the Carib and Arawak Nations. She hails from the small quiet village of Land of Osborne, in Santa/ Aratak. At 16, she already knows what she wants to become; and that’s a lawyer. Like most of the other contestants, she, too, likes nothing better than to sink her teeth into a good book. But she also likes singing, dancing and listening to music. Her favourite Indigenous dish is fried Tocuma on Cassava Bread, with Tuma Pot and a cool glass of Beltiri.
REGION FOUR: Cassie Junor Ms Junor is a teacher by profession, and at just 17 is the youngest member of staff at the St. Cuthbert’s/Pakuri Secondary School. The Lokono-born beauty says since the sky is the limit, her favourite colour is sky blue. Her favourite Indigenous meal is the mouthwatering Tocuma with Cassava Bread and a cool calabash of Fly. A dedicated athlete, she has represented Guyana twice on the Volleyball court in an U19 tournament. Her ambition is to become a qualified educator, so she can help to mold the minds of Guyana’s
future generation. She follows in the footsteps of her mom, who is her role model because she is hardworking and dedicated to her family.
REGION FIVE: Anastacia Harripersaud A teacher by profession, Anastacia hails from Moraikobai Village. The 17-year-old Lokono says her aim is to one day become an Economist. Her favourite food is Pepperpot and Cassava Bread served with Fly. Her likes swimming and travelling, and the movie, Fifty Shades of Grey.
REGION SIX: Roberta Alpin A qualified Accountant, Roberta is a descendant of the Lokono Nation. The 1 7 - y e a r- o l d , w h o hails from Orealla Village, loves Beleto and roast Labba meat with Beltiri. She also loves reading and interacting with friends. Her favourite colour is pink.
so “don’t waste your time trying to identify me on any account”, she says.
REGION SEVEN: Dolly Chambers Dolly is a proud Arecuna, who hails from Paruima Village, om the Upper Mazaruni. The 18-year-old beauty, who was a student of St. Stanislaus College, dreams of one day becoming an exemplary Architect in her home country, Guyana. Her hobbies are swimming in rivers, camping and paper craft, while her favourite foods and drink are Fish Tuma, Yam Wine and Starch Bake. Her favourite colour is purple.
REGION EIGHT: Sherryanna Balkaran A lover of trees, this 20-year-old Patamona beauty who hails from Paramakatoi is pursuing a Degree in Forestry at the University of Guyana. Her favourite Indigenous meal is spicy Tapir Pepperpot with Cassava Bread, or Farine with semi-strong Casserie. Her favorite pastime is reading thrillers, looking at cooking shows, watching movies, and spending quality time with her family. Strangely enough, Miss Balkarran does not have an active social media account,
REGION NINE: Junisha Johnny This 17-year-old Macushi-born hails from St. Ignatius Village, and aspires to become a family lawyer. Her special talent is singing, but she also enjoys swimming. Ms Johnny, who speaks her native Mucushi fluently, enjoys Cassava Bread and Tuma Pot. Her favourite colour is purple. She hopes to one day meet her idol, Brazilian and international football icon, Neymar Júnior.
REGION TEN: Shanna Boyle A graduate of President’s College who hails from Kimbia, Berbice River, Miss Boyle is a proud Lokono descendant. The aspiring journalist, who is 17 years old, enjoys travelling, meeting new people, camping and hiking. She is also an avid researcher, and has a positive attitude towards life. Her favourite food is Tuma Pot and Cassava Bread.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 28, 2017
Micobie set to come alive weekend --as Heritage Month winds down THE Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) village of Micobie is expected to come alive over the weekend when it hosts its annual heritage celebrations. This year, the village plans to ensure visitors enjoy the wide array of activities it has planned for the occasion. The events will commence on Saturday at 06:00
hrs with a “Three-Mile Road Race” which will see participants run from the Tiger Creek Bridge to the primary school in the village. The race is open to persons 18 years and over, and caters for both males and females. The celebrations proper will commence with an official opening ceremony at 09:00hrs with welcome
remarks from Toshao John Andre in his native Wapishan language as well as in English. There will also be prayers in the Akawaio, Wapishan and Patamona languages, and this will be followed by remarks from the guest speaker, Regional Chairman Bonventure Fredericks. The day’s activities in-
clude an archery contest, which will see participation from several villages such as Campbelltown, Great Falls, Kanapang and Princeville. Micobie’s Toshao, John Andre told the Guyana Chronicle that he expects a great turn-out of visitors this year. The two-day event is one which is highly anticipated by persons in the region.
The benab at Micobie, in Region Eight
The Indigenous People’s Commission --striving to upkeep its mandate By Ravena Gildharie IT has been seven years since the constitutional Indigenous People’s Commission (IPC) was established, and while there are some concerns with regard to its operations, the IPC Secretariat remains convinced that the Commission is functional, and has been maintaining its mandate despite challenges. The IPC, one of several ‘Rights Commissions’ created under Guyana’s Constitutional Reform of 1996, was established in 2010 with the appointment of 12 commissioners mandated “To establish mechanisms to enhance the status of indigenous peoples and to respond to their legitimate demands and needs.” Doreen Jacobis, of Tapakuma, was appointed Chairman, with members including Yvonne Pearson, Patricia Singh, David James, Marco DeSouza and Mathilda Williams. James Singh of the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) and Gerry Gouveia of the Private Sector also sit on the IPC. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the IPC Secretariat, Neil Bacchus explained that the IPC started work in 2011, and was expected to serve up until 2014. When the President David Granger-led administration
took office in 2015, the IPC was given the go-ahead to continue its work. The Commissioners meet monthly for statutory meetings where they are expected to discuss issues brought before the IPC, and thereafter guide the Secretariat on proposed recommendations and actions to be taken. The Commissioners met just earlier this month. Recently, Vice-Chairman of the National Toshaos Council (NTC), Lennox Shuman expressed concerns about the existence and functioning of the IPC, as he claimed that the Commission was not fulfilling its mandate, resulting in much of the burden being placed on the NTC. He feels that the IPC is not visible, and that its work, therefore, is not translating to the benefit of Indigenous People. ITS FUNCTIONS Functions of the IPC include to monitor and review existing and proposed legislation and policies for compliance with matters under the Commission’s purview, and report to the National Assembly the need for any amendment. It is expected also to educate the public on relevant matters, and to conduct research and studies on issues related to the Commission’s work, thereafter reporting its findings and recommenda-
IPC outreach at Orealla (IPC photo)
tions to the National Assembly. Further, the IPC is intended to investigate complaints, or initiate investigations into violations of the rights of Indigenous Peoples, and to resolve disputes or rectify acts or omissions by mediation, conciliation or negotiation. Other functions include taking appropriate action on behalf of persons whose rights are violated; and liaising with governmental or non-governmental organisations and other relevant bodies to address complaints and concerns of persons brought to the IPC. Bacchus, currently overseas on a government scholarship, explained that complaints to the IPC are mostly related to mining and land issues. In order to address the foregoing issues, the IPC Secretariat liaises with relevant State policy agencies such as the various Ministries, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), GFC, and the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission. The IPC lends support to the National Technical Working Group (NTWG) of the Guyana European Union Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (EU FLEGT) and FLEGT VPA. Under the project, the IPC received US$25,000 that was used to conduct workshops specifically in Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice). Further, Bacchus indicated that after the Commission was appointed in 2010, the Secretariat was established in 2011 and a Five-year Strategic Plan was launched in 2012. Annual reports were presented to the House in 2011 and 2012. T h e f o l l o w i n g y e a r, Toshaos of Regions Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and 10 were trained in collaboration with the Justice Institute of Guyana, while Baramita and Tapakuma were assisted in crafting their strategic plans for 2013.
IPC Commissioners meeting with President David Granger in 2015
COMMUNITY OUTREACHES Community outreaches were done at Orealla and Baramita during 2014, while the Baramita Village Council benefited from training and capacity building in 2015 and 2016. A community outreach to the Wai Wai community of Gunns Strip took place in 2016. More recently, the IPC participated in a ‘training of trainers’ session on Sensitising Peers about Human Trafficking, and a technical skills training on human trafficking hosted by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). In June 2017, Bacchus said the IPC distributed 50 food hampers to the
flood-affected victims of Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) and Eight (Potaro-Siparuni). Bacchus said that limited financial resources had been one of the challenges affecting the Commission’s work plan, taking into account that the majority of the 70,000+ Indigenous populations in Guyana reside in remote and far-flung hinterland communities of the country. He, nevertheless, assured the Guyana Chronicle that the IPC remains committed to delivering its responsibility, and working through whatever obstacles, within and outside of the Commission, to ensure the rights of Indigenous Peoples are protected and upheld as mandated.
The Commission’s objectives include promoting and protecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples; raising awareness of the contributions of, and problems faced by, Indigenous Peoples; promoting the empowerment of Indigenous Peoples, especially with regard to the village council in the local government system and the scope and authority of the Council of Toshaos; to make recommendations on economic and education policies to advance the interests of Indigenous Peoples; and to make recommendations for the protection and preservation of the cultural heritage and language of Indigenous Peoples.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, September 28, 2017