DPI Hinterland Highlights by Guyana Consulate

hinterland highlights october 2018

a publication of the department of public information

VOTE

NOV 12

EXERCISE YOU CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHT

HINTERLAND H

Maternity Waiting Home at Indigenous Residence

Ten honoured for contribution to indigenous development

Weights on interior roads to be monitored scales to be installed

PAGE 2

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

INDIGENOUS CULTURAL EXTRAVAGANZA WOWS

The Surama Cultural Group performing ‘nine nations delivery’

Patrons were treated to evenings of Indigenous dances, songs, poems, skits, craft, art and food as the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affair held five-days of cultural at the Indigenous Village in Sophia in commemoration of Indigenous

Heritage Month. Performance included dances depicting the way of life and the legends of the various Indigenous groups in Guyana by the Batavia, Surama, Jawalla and Nappi Cultural Groups and a contingent from neighbouring Suriname. Indigenous calypsonians King Harpy and Marcia King also treated the audience to renditions of their songs. The food exhibition saw Guyanese sampling a wide variety of Indigenous dishes such as casiri, piwari and fly, farine and tuma pot, and the ever-popular cassava bread. It also saw a number of first-timers exhibitors, all of whom expressed their satisfaction with being a part of the celebrations. Walter Larose from Region One, is the founder of Oyono Products where he makes cassava-based products with his signature product being the cassareep. Larose stated that he received great feedback from persons who bought the cassareep adding that many persons also liked its presentation. “They came and complimented me on how it was presented because it is on another level compared to other products” he shared.

The Suriname group performing a song

Another first-time exhibitor was artist Nicholas Sookdeo from Region Three. Sookdeo’s drawings are labelled ‘Ma-ko-she Art’, a little twist he placed on ‘Macushi’, one of the nine Indigenous tribes in Guyana. He said much of his inspiration for his drawing comes from the rich history of the Indigenous people not only in Guyana but also from the rest of the world. He noted that the response from patrons was overwhelming. “Most people said they have never really come across drawings like these” Sookdeo stated. Natasha David of David’s Creative Design is a regular exhibitor at the Heritage Village. She designs a number of accessories, baskets, dolls and costumes. According to David, over the years, the exhibition has provided her with the opportunity to expand her customer base and business. “People love my products so they come out and look for me to get their accessories and whatever they need to wear." She also pointed out that the heritage celebration is something that she looks forward to every year. For first time patron, Carolyn Limerick, exploring the Indigenous culture, more specifically the different foods, was “exciting”. “The different

Natasha David of David’s Creative Design meats that they barbeque - it looks nice, and everybody with their headbands and the Amerindian jewellery” are just some of the things that caught the eyes of Limerick.  Isaiah Braithwaite and Synieka Thorne Images: Jules Gibson

Some of the art and craft that were available at the Heritage Village

RELIGIOUS CEREMONY USHER IN HERITAGE MONTH 2018 A religious ceremony, led by the Jawalla Hallelujah Group, was held to usher in Indigenous Heritage Month activities for 2018, at the Heritage Village, Sophia Exhibition Centre, Georgetown. Hallelujah’ is the only traditional religion in Guyana and is practised mostly by the indigenous peoples of the Upper Mazaruni, the Pakarimas and in the Rupununi. Hallelujah means a solemn worship to the supreme father in heaven. Present at the event were Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock and Minister within the Ministry, Valerie Garrido-Lowe and Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr. Barton Scotland and members of the diplomatic corps. The service began with a “Wada Boo Call”

Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Valerie Garrido-Lowe greeting one of the groups who are in Georgetown to participate in the Heritage launch.

or the sound of a horn traditionally used by the Indigenous nations as a signal to assemble. The ministers and others in attendance then joined in the ‘thanksgiving’ ceremony which took the form of dances around the benab and chanting in the Akawaio Language. In brief remarks, Minister Allicock emphasised the importance of the month’s celebration to showcasing the culture and way of life of the Indigenous peoples to the rest of Guyana. He said that for years, the indigenous peoples have been playing their role in preserving the ecosystem and those contributions must be recognised and shared with others.  Synieka Thorne Image: Keno George

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

PAGE 3

GOVT REMOVING DISPARITIES AMONG THE INDIGENOUS – PRESIDENT AT HERITAGE MONTH LAUNCH

Guyanese of all ethnicities flocked to witness, where President David Granger reiterated his Government’s committed to bridging the gaps between the coastland and the hinterland through education, while saying it is taking steps to improve access to education as it is the fastest way to address inequalities. “We are concerned with eliminating inequal-

ities among the Guyanese people and we believe that education is the surest and swiftest way to eliminate those inequalities. The Government is taking steps to improve hinterland education access; improved attendance and attainment,” the

Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo and his wife, Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo being greeted by an Indigenous Leader

president said, delivering the feature address, the of“…Access to hinterland ficial launch of Indigenous education is evident in the Heritage Month 2018 at the construction, extension, Heritage Village at the Sorepairs and renovation phia Exhibition Centre. and improvement of “…Access to hinterschools and dormitories at land education is evident in Asakata, Bartica, Bina Hill, the construction, extension, Itabac, Kato, Kamarang, repairs and renovation and improvement of schools and Kamwatta, Katoka, Nappi, dormitories at Asakata, BarPort Kaituma, Santa tica, Bina Hill, Itabac, Kato, Rosa, Waramadong and Kamarang, Kamwatta, KaWarapoka,” toka, Nappi, Port Kaituma, Santa Rosa, Waramadong and Warapoka,” the president noted. He added that Government working to ensure that the gap is closed, has ensured that village economies are being stimulated, infrastructure are being improved, and agro-processing is at an all-time high. President Granger also pledged his Government’s full support to working with the National Toshao Council (NTC) to address the issues plaguing the Indigenous communities. Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock called on the villages to develop their Village Improvement Plans since it is integral to

President David Granger addressing the gathering

each village mapping their development. Also, in attendance were Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and his wife, Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo, Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings-Williams, and Ministers within the Ministries of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe, Finance, Jaipaul Sharma and Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings and NTC Chairman Nichols Fredericks.  Synieka Thorne Images: Jameel Mohamed

TEN HONOURED FOR CONTRIBUTION TO INDIGENOUS DEVELOPMENT Ten Indigenous leaders were toasted for their invaluable contributions to community development, at the Reflection on the Life of Stephen Campbell at the Umana Yana, Kingston on Monday, September 10. Among those honoured for their contribution in the area of education, health and community development were; Johnathan Jarvis and Edwards Anthony Jarvis and Olga Chacon, Region One; Morris Leyland Jeffery, Region Two; Region Four, Lloyd Andrews and Amanda Mahadeo; Region Five, Sylvie Henry; Region Six, Rudolph Peneux; Region Eight, Dianna Abraham; Region Nine, John Medas Alfred and Janet Rema Yaymochi. The late Stephen Campbell, Guyana’s first Amerindian Member of Parliament, is widely regarded as a hero by the Indigenous communities, and his achievements are celebrated on September 10 every year as a part of activities to commemorate Heritage Month. Minister of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs' Sydney Allicock described Campbell as “Jack of all Trades and Master for the representation of land rights for the Indigenous peoples.” He said Campbell was a visionary and most of what he represented is still relevant today. Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe, described

Stephen Campbell as a “strong man and a fighter for the rights of the Indigenous Peoples”. Among his achievements were his efforts to-

wards crafting an Amerindian Act, and improving access to health and education services, and agriculture development. 

Synieka Thorne Image: Keno George

First Lady Mrs. Sandra Granger, Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock and Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe, Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings-Williams and Minister with within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings, and Permanent Secretary, Alfred King along with the awardees at the reflection on the life of Stephen Campbell at the Umana Yana, Kingston.

PAGE 4

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

MATERNITY WAITING HOME COMMISSIONED AT INDIGENOUS RESIDENCE The Ministry of Public Health commissioned a rehabilitated Maternity Waiting Home at the Indigenous Residence, Princess Street, Georgetown. The facility will accommodate some thirteen (13) high-risk pregnant mothers from the hinterland and other far-flung areas. The project was executed by the Ministry of Public Health through funding from the In-

Minister Lawrence interacting with a young mother being housed at the Indigenous Residence, Princess Street, Georgetown.

ter-American Development Bank. The building is equipped with modern amenities such as beds and cupboards, a television set, microwave and washroom facilities. It allows pregnant women to travel to Georgetown several weeks before delivery, await the onset of labour, before being transferred to the main referral hospital for safe delivery. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence said that the project forms part of the government’s strategy to end maternal, prenatal and neonatal deaths throughout Guyana. “I hope that this facility will serve as a comfortable and caring home away from home, where your health and pregnancies will be monitored, and safe delivery procedures can be assured… Our mandate is to increase access to health services and reduce maternal deaths by bridging the geographical barriers to access quality health care. Our goal is to provide the same level of care that pertain in the coastland in our hinterland regions,” Minister Lawrence explained. Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock noted that the project is a significant achievement for the ministry, as it endeavours to provide quality of services to the Indigenous peoples of Guyana. The minister explained that the new facility complements the major works the ministry has been executing at the Indigenous Residence, to

Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock and Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe during the cutting of the ribbon to officially commission the Maternity Waiting Home at the Indigenous Residence, Princess Street, Georgetown. ensure that people are being housed in a comfortable environment. The current maternity ward also benefitted from a facelift. The project began in January 2018 at a cost of almost $800,000 and is part of a $1.6Million project that will see several other facilities also being

furnished. A staff nurse and nursing assistant are currently at the facility. A medic and visiting doctor will be added to the staff complement.  Synieka Thorne Images: Akeem Thomas and the Ministry of Public Health

Inside the Maternity Waiting Home at the Indigenous Residence, Princess Street, Georgetown.

$27M EXPANSION TAKING SHAPE AT INDIGENOUS RESIDENCE The sum of $27M is being spent on expansion and renovation of the Indigenous Residence at Princess Street, Georgetown, to ensure the persons housed at the location are in a comfortable environment when in the capital city to seek medical and other services. The project is part of the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs 2018 Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP). The Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Alfred King, confirmed the projects are on schedule and will be completed within a month. The Permanent Secretary said the projects are in keeping with the ministry’s effort to provide optimum services to the hinterland residents. King further explained that the initiative also addresses the need for office space as well as the residential space for persons seeking welfare support at the residence. He said, “what we have found is that the hostel

was designed to accommodate over 120 persons, on average. On a monthly bases, we have about 193 persons passing through the facility, so based on the growing demands for such wel-

fare support at the hostel, and to make them a bit more comfortable we sought to expand the facility.” The expansion will facilitate rooms to accom-

The expansion works ongoing at the Indigenous Residents at Princess Street, Georgetown

modate an additional 60 persons. King added that once completed, the standard of the facility will be elevated to one that the ministry is proud off; in terms of ventilation, bed space, cupboards, dining facilities and enhanced security. The staff are also being trained to deliver quality services. Last year the facility’s dining area was rehabilitated, and painting and minor works were done to the maternity unit and rooms. Rehabilitation works were done on the Maternity Waiting Home to accommodate 13 ‘high risk' pregnant mothers. Additionally, a bus was handed over to the residence to transport persons who have travelled to the city to transact business. The kitchen will also be spruced up to accommodate additional storage facilities and cooking facility by the end of the year.  Synieka Thorne Image: Akeem Thomas

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

PAGE 5

BORDER COMMUNITY IN STATE OF HEALTH READINESS - AMIDST INFLUX OF VENEZUELAN MIGRANTS

Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings visited villages in the Mabaruma sub-region where Venezuelan migrants are currently residing. The main purpose

nous Venezuelans are staying. There she met with Mabaruma’s Mayor Henry Smith and Town Clerk Barrington Wade. The officials said the town council is working closely with the task force to

Soldiers offloading supplies for the migrants

CDC DISTRIBUTES ADDITIONAL SUPPLIES TO VENEZUELAN MIGRANTS The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) conducted a one-day exercise on September 6, in the Barima-Waini Region, to distribute additional supplies to Venezuelan migrants, as well as to “monitor government’s intervention” of the migrants over the last three months. The team revisited Khan’s Hill, in the Mabaruma sub-region district, where 24 migrant fami-

White Water, there are two groups of migrants; they are categorised as persons who would have re-migrated over a year ago and persons who have recently arrived. Craig stated that those who would have arrived some time ago “have already integrated into the community.” He noted that migrants in this area have also received the same benefits as those

Migrants taking their supplies back to their camps

lies benefited from additional food items. The CDC also visited the Indigenous community of White Water where non-food items were distributed to 46 migrant families. These supplies included sanitary items such as bleach, soap and water purification tablets. Director-General (ag) of the CDC, Lieutenant-Colonel Kester Craig stated that the opportunity was also used to assess the integration of migrants into the border communities. Craig told the Department of Public Information that the migrants were temporarily issued a plot of land to occupy in Khan’s Hill, by the Toshao of the community and would have “made significant progress in clearing that land and also erecting some temporary shelters.” The acting Director-General explained that at

in Khan’s Hill as “the Toshao and the village council would have given them lands” on which they cultivated crops to sustain themselves. He stated that as part of their efforts to “make them a little bit more comfortable” non-food items were issued. The team visited Gaja Landing where approximately 30 migrant families, who crossed Guyana’s borders over the last month, have settled. Lieutenant Colonel Craig remarked that the CDC is cognisant of the need for food and nonfood items to be distributed to migrants in that area. He disclosed that additional supplies are being mobilised.  Anara Khan Images: Akeem Thomas

Mabaruma Town Clerk, Barrington Ward [extreme right] briefing Minister Cummings [centre]and her team of the current status of the immigrant occupancy at Khan Hill

of her trip was to ascertain the effectiveness of health services being delivered to them. The Minister also sought to ensure that local health authorities in Region One have the necessary protective and preventative measures in place against possible outbreaks, guarding the local population especially pregnant women and children from deadly illnesses and diseases. Taking into consideration Guyana’s porous borders and multiple cross-over points between the two countries, Minister Cummings explained it is important that Region One is prepared and equipped to deal with eventualities of the continuous arrival of Venezuelan migrants The minister’s first engagement was at Khan Hill, Mabaruma where approximately 103 indige-

better house and provide for these migrants. The Venezuelan migrants are mainly of Warrau heritage. Due to this, the town council is exploring the option of developing five acres of Warrau lands as they are temporarily occupying residential lands and other reserves. In Smith Creek, along the Barima River, there is an increase in arrival of migrants seeking refuge, living space and food. As this riverine community continues to see an influx of persons, the construction of shed-like structures (benabs) where families are housed, continues. The last recorded number of persons in the Smyth’s Creek village was 80.  Delicia Haynes Image: Anil Seelall

INDIGENOUS LEADERS URGED TO ENSURE MIGRANTS ARE SETTLED LEGALLY Rupununi village leaders are being urged to be attentive and ensure Venezuelan migrants entering Guyana are legally settled. During a recent visit, President David Granger reminded that thousands of Venezuelans are fleeing to other countries to escape the economic turmoil in their own nation. The Head of State added that there is a possibility for spill over into Guyana from the border shared with Brazil and urged Indigenous leaders to be vigilant. “We want to make ensure that any settlement is done in an orderly and legitimate manner,” the

president said. A number of Venezuelans have already been settled in Regions One and Seven. The president said attentiveness is needed to ensure migrants entering Guyana do not pose any health or security risks. A multi-agency task force has been established to ensure the legal settlement of Venezuelan migrants in Guyana. The Guyana Civil Defence Commission (CDC) has also been providing food and other relief supplies to assist them.  Tiffny Rhodius

PAGE 6

8,000

Eight thousand (8,000) hinterland nursery and primary-level (Grade one) children have seen significant improvements in their emergent literacy and numeracy following the successful completion of the Guyana Early Childhood Education Project (GECEP). At the conclusion of the three-year project, literacy among hinterland children improved by 139.78 per cent while numeracy improved by 133.67. Students started the project with a literacy rate of 36.63 per cent in literacy and 37.53 in numeracy. GECEP Project Coordinator, Quenita Walrond-Lewis said the strong finish is a testament to the mental shift in how early childhood education is treated. “[These children] finished stronger quite possibly because our teachers were better prepared, our teachers had more interactive teaching, learning materials and they had the partnership of their parents and primary caregivers,” Walrond-Lewis said. The Ministry of Education recently hosted a closing ceremony at the Umana Yana to celebrate the success of the project. GECEP was launched in Bartica, Region Seven in 2015. The project sought to improve emergent literacy and numeracy outcomes for children at the nursery as well as Grade One levels in Regions One, Seven, Eight, Nine and riverain communities along the coast.

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

HINTERLAND CHILDREN SAW IMPROVEMENT IN LITERACY AND NUMERACY

Guyana Early Childhood Education Project (GECEP) Class of 2018. ECE Master Trainers pose with First Lady Mrs Sandra Granger, Minister of Education, Nicolette Henry, Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings-Williams, other Ministry of Education officials and special guests.

GECEP was conducted in collaboration with the Global Partnership for Education and the World Bank. The more than $355B (US$1.7M) project saw

Minister of State, Joseph Harmon and Minister of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs, Sydney Allicock in discussion with the Chief Executive Officer of the Iwokrama Centre for Rain Forest Conservation, Dane Gobin

Minister of Education, Nicolette Henry, said the project’s success solidifies the need for national scale-up of certain components. She added that Early Childhood Education (ECE) resource toolkits, which was used in the project, will be provided to all coastland nursery schools by the end of the month. Minister Henry noted the kits have already been procured. “There is also increased allocation of personnel and resources for consistent and ongoing monitoring and mentoring of in-service educators to ensure the good quality of education service delivery and deeper, more sustainable streamline and alignment without parents through community-based Parent Teachers Associations and the parent circles initiative,” Minister Henry explained.

a significant portion of the funding being used to build the capacity of the trainers. There were 41 ECE Master Trainers who monitored and mentored some 526 in-service practitioners during the life of the project. Some 750 ECE resource kits were procured and distributed which benefited some 8,000 children from Regions One, Seven, Eight, Nine and riverain communities along the coast. Over 200 primary caregivers benefited from tailored education. The GECEP objectives were in alignment with the Ministry of Education’s five-year Nursery Education Action Plan and the Global Partnership for Education Strategic Plan 2012-2015.  Tiffny Rhodius Images: Jameel Mohamed

NAREI HELPING WITH BARAMITA KITCHEN GARDENS

The National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) is helping ten households in the Carib community of Baramita in Region One to establish and manage kitchen gardens. The initiative is part of the Ministerial Task Force’s approach to improve the living standard of Baramita residents, especially single parent mothers and members of the Hinterland Employment Youth Service. NAREI’s involvement aims at promoting food security and nutrition through diversifying and increasing crop production. NAREI between August 9 and 12, through its Hinterland Coordinator, Aaron Ramroop exposed participants to practical training in cash crop

seedling production and orchard management. The training was conducted on small holdings owned by some participants and at the Baramita Training Centre. Participants were each given three seed trays and seeds for various cash crops including hot and sweet peppers, cabbage and other vegetables. They also received small packs of ochro seeds and 20 seedling bags to plant soursop and papaya. NAREI, through its Extension Services, will be monitoring the progress of the households.  Synieka Thorne Image: National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI)

Some of the residents who received support from the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

PAGE 7

MAHDIA MINERS CONSULTED ON DRAFT MINING POLICY The team commissioned to develop a strategic ten-year national mining policy framework is expected to produce a draft document shortly. Head of the three-person team, which was commissioned earlier this year, Sherwood Lowe noted the draft policy will have a mechanism for stakeholder review. On Saturday, August 25, Lowe consulted miners in the Region Eight community of Mahdia at a mini-mining symposium. The symposium was hosted by the Guyana Mining School and Training Centre as part of activities in commemoration of Mine Safety Awareness Day in the community. Lowe, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Guyana, explained the team has been consulting stakeholders, researching and reviewing reports towards the first draft. Nigel Trotman, the Public Relations Officer for the Mahdia Mining Syndicate, said he welcomed the consultation adding that he looks forward to seeing meaningful benefits out of the policy which would transform the way mining is done in Guyana. One resident, Gillian Balkaran, expressed she would like to see a portion of the revenues and taxes from mining be reinvested in the development of the town of Mahdia. Lowe’s team will be producing a National

Minerals Sector Policy Framework (NMSPF) and a National Minerals Sector Action Plan, with the Action Plan identifying the work activities for the

- RESIDENTS WELCOME TOWNSHIP STATUS

Sherwood Lowe, lead consultant on a strategic 10-year plan for the mineral sector. implementation of the Policy Framework for the period 2019-2029. These documents will have to be framed within the Green State Development Strategy (GSDS). During the symposium, miners were also educated on the GSDS and its impact on their work.  Tiffny Rhodius Image: Karime Peters

MAHDIA PRIMARY SCHOOL UNDERGOING MAJOR UPGRADES The Department of Education in Region Eight has implemented a shift system for students of the Mahdia Primary School. According to District Regional Education Officer (REdO), Lionel Jacobus, the school is currently undergoing major rehabilitative works. Jacobus explained to the Department of Public Information that the shift system will see primary school students attending classes at the Mahdia Secondary School from 08:00hrs to mid-day; while classes for the secondary students will be held from12:30hrs to 16:30hrs at the institution. Jacobus said this measure will ensure classes continue as the repairs continue. The REdO explained that “there are certain areas such as the walls, roof among other sections within the school that need to be completed to ensure there is a conducive learning environment for the students and staff.” Jacobus highlighted that the Mahdia Boys Dormitory is currently under rehabilitation and in the interim, the male students are housed in the dining hall building. During the 2018 National Budget, the region was allocated $1. 8Billion. The monies approved covers current expenditure of $1,574,576Billion and Capital Expenditure $226,265Million, and will provide for intervention in Regional Administration and Finance ($136,873M), Public Infrastructure ($288.092M), Education Delivery ($981.849M), Health Services ($370,676M) and

MAHDIA OFFICIALLY A TOWN

District Regional Education Officer, Lionel Jacobus

Agriculture ($23,351M). The region is set to complete projects such as the completion of bridges at Mipaparu, Yawong, Kawa and Tuseneng; the rehabilitation of the Three Miles Bridge; the construction of a road from Kanawaruk to Morwa; the completion of the Kaibarupai Primary School; the construction of Itabac Primary School; the Mahdia District Hospital and the Mahdia Nurses’ Hostel among others.  Neola Damon Image: Department of Public Information

Scene from Mahdia

Local radio announcer, Lisa Lee After a series of consultation, Mahdia in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) is now set to participate in this year’s Local Government Elections (LGE) as it has officially been named a town. By way Order No.27 of 2018 published in the Official Gazette dated August 9, the Region Eight community was officially designated a town. Residents who are anticipating going to the polls share their thoughts on their new status to the Department of Public Information. Contractor, Abeja Trotman, said Mahdia becoming a town is a good initiative and encouraged his fellow residents to work towards it becoming a success. “Central government needs to place a lot of emphasis into putting certain infrastructure in place like banks and these things nevertheless the community has a lot of work to do and I think we’re capable and we will work together to ensure that it’s a success,” Trotman pledged Feroze Khan, who’s been living in Mahdia for the past 18 years said that it is great that the community is developing. “This is all I am looking forward to a long time now…I’d like to see a lot of improvements and job opportunities for the people them not just mining,” Khan said. Casandra Burrows said she is excited about the township and the opportunities it will provide for young people. “I’m happy that our young people here would be exposed to different programmes, the institutes. So far, here they have some children, they cannot afford to go to Georgetown to further their studies and so on,” she noted. Local radio announcer Lisa Lee said, “it’s a big step for Mahdia that will see a lot of development.” “I was born here, I grew up here I did all my schooling here I see this as a big moving

forward for the people and other surrounding areas. Mahdia will not only have its own GRA it will have other institutes, agencies that will help to make Mahdia a better place,” lee pointed out. Mahdia was among a list of communities identified by President David Granger in 2015 to be commissioned as towns. The other three, Bartica, Lethem, and Mabaruma are already up and running, however, Mahdia was having some delays due to issues with internal boundaries. According to the Ministry of Communities, the transformation of the new township has already begun with the upgrading of 80 percent of

Casandra Burrows the internal roads from laterite to concrete that will last for decades. Moreover, plans have been advanced for the construction of a government compound that will house a number of government agencies such as the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Guyana Lands and Survey Commission (GLSC), Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) and other agencies. The boundaries of the new township excludes, the titled Indigenous communities of Campbelltown and Micobie as is the expressed desire of those Village Councils following a series of consultations.  Alexis Rodney and Tiffny Rhodius Images: Karime Peters

PAGE 8

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

A section of the Linden-Lethem road

Linden-Lethem road may be realised under Belt and Road Initiative The much-anticipated Linden-Lethem road is among the infrastructural projects that may soon come on-stream under the China Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). In late July, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) within the framework of China’s Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, more commonly referred to as the Belt and Road Initiative was signed between the governments of Guyana and China. The MOU makes provision for cooperation in the areas of policy coordination, facilities connectivity, trade and investment, finance and integration, and people-to-people interaction. During a post-Cabinet briefing, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon explained that the question of the Linden-Lethem road was one of the matters to be considered under the MOU. “That is a major public infrastructure project that has been on our agenda from the time we came into office. While there is a broad frame-

work within which these things are done, all of these projects have to go through the tendering process. So not every project put forward will receive funding, it still has to be reviewed properly to ensure that the requirements for funding are met,” Minister Harmon explained. The minister further explained that the government will prioritise transforming Guyana’s infrastructural landscape and improve social services through the MOU. The Terms of Reference for the construction of the Linden-Lethem road by the Guyanese and Brazilian governments is ready. Phase One of the project covers approximately 125 kilometres of the road (Linden to Mabura Hill) and also includes a bridge across the Kurupukari River. Guyana secured funding from the British Government through its UK Caribbean Infrastructure Partnership Fund (UKCIF) programme to complete the design.  Ranetta La Fleur Image: Kennyann Bacchus

WEIGHTS ON INTERIOR ROADS TO BE MONITORED SCALES TO BE INSTALLED

Arun Richard, Special Projects Manager of the Guyana Geology Mines Commission (GGMC) The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the Ministry of Public Infrastructure are taking the necessary steps to ensure vehicles traversing the interior roads adhere to the specified weight limits. According to Manager of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission’s Special Projects Unit, Arun Richard a number of scales have already been acquired by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure and will be installed shortly. “I would say within about three months they will be installed. We are still to define which sections of the carriageway we are going to put the scales on, but they are going to be strategic so that they can have a wide effect. For example,

one placement can be used to determine vehicles that will use maybe several roads like Linden for example,” Richard told the Department of Public Information. The move to install scales comes at a time when the GGMC has ramped up maintenance efforts and recently awarded contracts valued at almost $700Million for the upgrade and maintenance of interior roads from Linden to Kwakwani and Linden to Lethem. In addition, Richard says stakeholders of the mining and logging communities have indicated their willingness to comply with the new arrangements which will rely on the law rather unofficial agreements. “From a transportation engineering perspective, we would rather rely on the strength of the system as opposed to a gentleman’s agreement and this is why we have resorted to installing scales and advocating for the more responsible use of the road. So, I am thinking to have an enforced system in place that would be the ideal situation to aim for,” he added. According to the Special Projects Manager, the interior roads are unpaved and are therefore susceptible to being damaged if improperly used. He said a major problem is the overloaded vehicles traversing the roads, particularly during the rainy season. There is nothing worse that can happen to a road than it being used outside of its design specification…. the vehicle is overloaded and you have additional axle weight beyond the design of the road which leads to rotting and failures. Adherence to load limits is important,” Richard said.  Kidackie Amsterdam Image: Tejpaul Bridgemohan

Ten Indigenous welfare officers now on the ground Indigenous leaders from Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine are now equipped with the expertise to serve as welfare officers, after successfully completing a one-month training programme. The participants received their certificates at a closing ceremony at the Hinterland Student Dormitory at Liliendaal. Minister of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs, Sydney Allicock said that the aim is to bridge the gap between the coastland and hinterland by providing access to services similar to that of coast landers: “For our ministry to be successful, we need such a team and with your intervention, with the right training, we will be able to achieve this…You have the quality and space to improve and we are here to give the

support.” Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe said the ten welfare officers will now have the task of engaging the people on the ground and getting au fait with the issues affecting them and providing feedback to the ministry. The training programme was done by facilitators from the ministry in collaboration with the Ministries of Social Protection, Public Health, Citizenship and Public Security and Specialists in Sustained Youth Development and Research (SSYDR). The plan is to establish a corps of welfare officers to be stationed across the hinterland.  Synieka Thorne Image: Abike Barker

Minister of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs, Sydney Allicock, Minister within the Minister of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs, Valerie GarridoLowe and Deputy Permanent Secretary, Samantha Fede along with the Welfare Officers at the closing ceremony for the training programme.

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

PAGE 9

Moruca Expo showcasing the talents and skills of residents tween local teams. Patrons also had the opportunity to sample Indigenous foods such as pepper-pot and cassava bread, and Fly, an indigenous alcoholic beverage and to purchase from a number of craft items as well as Indigenous paintings that were on sale. On the Saturday, the exposition was formally declared open by the Moruca Expo Chairperson,

Esther Wilson, Miss Moruca 2018

The quiet Santa Rosa village came alive for the 2018 expo which included, archery, swimming, eating competitions and the Miss Moruca 2018 pageant. The two-day affair saw patrons from the Indigenous communities as well as Guyanese from as far as Berbice and overseas tourists arriving by land and river to the quite Santa Rosa village. Government agencies such as Go Invest, the Ministry of Business, the Department of Public Information and the Essequibo Technical Institute were in attendance and had booths set up. The expo commenced on a Friday evening with boxing displays, football and a Gospel concert. Patrons were treated to local musical talent as well as view exhilarating football matches be-

Patrons participating in the fly drinking competition

Miss Moruca 2017 gets the ball rolling on the archery activities

A patron participating in the crab catching competition

Lucy Wilson. This day’s schedule was packed with events for the young and the old. Patrons participated in the “hot pot” competition, which requires participants to finish their plate of meat which was cooked in very hot pepper. There was also a 'Fly drinking competition'. The events lasted until late into the afternoon and set the stage for the highlight of the day, the Miss Moruca 2018 pageant. There were over five hundred persons present for the show where six

beautiful delegates competed for the crown. In the end, Esther Wilson, from Santa Cruz, won the judges favour and was crowned Miss Moruca 2018. Expo Chairperson, Lucy Wilson disclosed that plans are already afoot for next year’s exhibition. According to her, “it’s going to be exclusively run by the Moruca Expo Committee.”  Anara Khan Images: Keno George

SMITH CREEK TOSHAO PLANS COMMUNITY CENTRE

Sherman Lewis, the Toshao of Smith Creek Village in Region One says part of his Village Council plans for the next three years, are to establish a multipurpose centre and an improved drainage system. In a recent interview with the Department of Public Information, Lewis explained that because Smith Creek is located at the edge of the Barima River, when there is high tide the water is lodged in the village for a prolonged period causing the area to become very swampy since there is very little drainage. “This poses a danger for our children in the village, because sometimes they go play and put things in their mouth and they get sick, and so that is an issue and I will be working to find a solution.” Lewis said that the village will be using its annual Presidential Grant Fund to partially fund the projects, and will also be engaging the government for additional support.

This year’s presidential grant, he said, will go towards the construction of a multipurpose centre for the village for meetings and social events as well as activities for the youths. In the interim, the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has provided water filters to the village to ensure the residents have safe drinking water. The Toshao has confirmed that since then, there were no reports of water-borne diseases. The selling of crab and fish is the main source of income for the over 200 residents and so, this year, the government allocated $10M for the establishment of a processing facility. Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe, during a visit to the village, said that the undertaking is in keeping with an objective of the ministry to develop small industries in the hinterland regions that provide a source of income.  Synieka Thorne

PAGE 10

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

LETHEM PUBLIC MARKET TARMAC TO BE COMPLETED SOON Deputy Mayor of Lethem, Maxine Welch-Hendricks

SOUTH RUPUNUNI WELL DRILLING COMMENCES The well drilling exercise in the South Rupununi, Region Nine, which will see eight artesian wells being drilled in eight communities has officially commenced and authorities are reporting the discovery of water at the first site in Karaudanawa. Director General of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig, who was in the Region earlier this week, said personnel from the Brazilian Army’s 6th

The Brazilian Army testing the proposed site for the drilling of the artesian well in Karaudanawa, South Rupununi. Battalion Engineering Corps conducted a test at Karaudanawa on Wednesday, October 3, 2018. The test he said showed a presence of water and drilling has since commenced at that location. Artesian wells will be drilled in the villages of Aishalton, Chukrikednau, Shea, Maruranawa, Awaruwaunau, Karaudanawa, Achiwib and Bashraidrun and will have a depth of approximately 80 metres or 250 feet deep. It is the intention of the Brazilian team to have the wells handed over to the Guyanese authorities on November 28, 2018. The project follows President David Granger’s State visit to Brazil in December 2017, where the Complementary Agreement to the Basic Agreement on Technical Cooperation between the Government of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana and the Federative Republic of Brazil for the Implementation of the Project Technologies to Reduce the Effects of the Drought in Region Nine was inked. 

Construction of the tarmac of the Lethem Public Market is ongoing and expected to be completed soon. Deputy Mayor, Maxine Welch-Hendricks said the municipality is working to ensure that work will be completed within a timely fashion. “They (workers) have already dug out the foundation however works were stalled due to the rainy season especially with our flooding situation but they have since resumed and set to be completed be-

fore town week begins.” The Deputy Mayor said that the municipality is also currently in the process of installing a pavilion to house spectators and floodlights at the Tabatinga Sports Complex. Welch-Hendricks added that the concrete fence has been erected around the ground, whilst an internal fence to protect spectators is also in the process of being built. This includes the construction of a small complex to be used for functions such as weddings.

During the 2018 National Budget, the region was allocated $2.37Billion, of this Lethem market tara$234.2Million, was for regional administration and finance; $329.4Million for public infrastructure; $1.16Million for education; $563.6Million for health services; and $83.8Million for agriculture.  Neola Damon Image: Jameel Mohammed

MULTI-AGENCY TASK FORCE TO TACKLE SOUTH RUPUNUNI PROBLEMS

President David Granger (second right) addresses Toshaos of the South Rupununi after hearing their concerns on a number of issues. Also, in photo are Ministers of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Sydney Allicock and Valerie Garrido-Lowe, Minister of Public Affairs Dawn Hastings-Williams, Minister of Social Cohesion Dr. George Norton and Guyana’s Consul General in Roraima and other Northern States of Brazil, Shirley Melville.

President David Granger has ordered that a multi-agency task force be set up to address the many multidimensional issues challenging the communities of the South Rupununi. The Head of State’s decision followed a number of complaints by Toshaos of the various communities about illegal mining, pollution, allegations of trafficking in persons (TIP) among other criminal activities, affecting their communities. He committed to having the many issues presented to him by the South Rupununi District Council (SRDC) investigated and remedied. “[There is need for] setting up of a mechanism for the regular if not continuous, exchange of information and more important, the solution of these problems. It is no point, at this stage, resorting to the ministerial system – I am thinking along the line of a multi-agency task force which can deal with all of these problems as they occur. We must deal with the problem in a more holistic way,” President Granger said. The meeting followed one held in Aishalton, Region Nine, in February where similar concerns were raised. The Head-of-State, after listening to

the presentations, said that the situation warrants immediate attention and called on Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings-Williams to organise stakeholder meetings in the near future. In the case of environmental issues, the President said that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), and the Protected Areas Commission (PAC) must work together “to bring an end to this scourge and contamination of the headwaters of this village”. In thanking the SRDC, which monitors the South Rupununi, for a comprehensive report President Granger said he is very concerned about the contamination of the headwaters as well as the increase in criminal activities in that part of the region. “So, from every point of view there is cause for concern. It calls for all-round vigilance, it’s not just the environment, it is also security, public health,” the President said. The Head of State then called on leaders to commit to preserving the environment and to co-operate to solve problems in the region. “Problems have to be solved…we are commit-

ted to solving the problems and not to sweep the problems under the carpet,” he said, while calling on Minister Hastings to convene a roundtable with all stakeholders to address the matters. Meanwhile, Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock described the challenges “as very serious” while stating that they must be addressed soonest. “It is bigger than just a Toshao,” he said, noting that there is need for a lot of technical and financial support to remedy the existing difficulties. Similarly, Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings-Williams said a proactive approach is needed to tackle the many issues raised and committed to working with stakeholders. Additionally, Toshao of Shulinab, Nicholas Fredericks said despite the many challenges facing the South Rupununi, the SRDC is pooling its available resources to be “the eyes and ears on the ground”. He too called for deeper collaboration among stakeholders while noting that information sharing, in a timely manner, is critical to finding solutions to the problems. 

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

LETHEM TOWN WEEK DELEGATES CALL ON FIRST LADY, INDIGENOUS MINISTERS

Delegates of the 2018 Lethem Town Week Pageant and reigning Queen Aaliyah Anthony paid a courtesy call on Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton at his Main Street office. The delegates will take to the stage in Lethem on October 19 where they will vie for the Miss Lethem crown. The delegates are Patricia James, Luana Primus, Faylaika Charles, Pricilla Licruz, Shaliza Yarde and Ashanti Williams. Enroute to the coveted Miss Lethem Crown, each delegate will use their platforms to influence change in addressing various social ills and advocating for youth development. Minister Norton congratulated the young ladies for representing their hometown and wished much success in the upcoming pageant. The minister also committed to attending the event and lending his support to the delegates. The delegates also met with First Lady Mrs Sandra Granger at her State House Office and with Minster of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings-Williams at the Ministry of the Presidency. Mrs. Granger, during a brief discussion with

PAGE 11

First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger with the reigning Miss Lethem Queen, Aaliyah Anthony [centre] and contestants of the 2018 pageant.

LETHEM TO BE PUT “ON THE MAP” AT UPCOMING TOWN WEEK ACTIVITIES

the pageant hopefuls, encouraged them to use their platforms well and to strive to be the best versions of themselves.

Minster Hastings-Williams urged the delegates to use the pageant to showcase the many talents of the hinterland.

Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton with delegates of the 2018 Lethem Town Week Pageant and reigning Queen Aaliyah Anthony

“I know you are only going to have one winner, but the idea is to be the best that you can be … and regardless of the results, you will learn from this experience. It will build your confi-

The second annual Lethem Town Week is aimed at showcasing the township as an attractive business and tourism destination. Speaking to the Department of Public Information Lethem’s Deputy-Mayor Maxine Hendricks said the township will have its moment to shine. This year’s Town Week will be held under the theme ‘Celebrating Transformation, Diversity and Uniqueness in 2018' from October 14 - 20. The Deputy-Mayor noted that the main objective of this year’s activity is to showcase the Town and the Rupununi region. “The main objective of this event is to attract as many visitors as possible from all over Guyana as well as foreigners,” Hendricks said. She said it is hoped that this year there will be more “inclusivity,” where persons outside the town would play a bigger role.

According to the Deputy-Mayor, the government, via the various ministries, has already been supporting the event through monetary and other contributions. Hendricks said other individuals and agencies are welcomed on board to aid the town in reaching its objective of “putting it back on the map”. “Lethem in itself is a gateway to numerous opportunities and various Eco-Tourism destinations… What makes us unique also is we are a border municipality. We have a lot of businesses and so much more to offer.” The week-long event will also see the promotion of a Green economy. Hendricks said various agencies will participate in the planting and adoption of some 10,000 trees. One of the most anticipated activities of the Town Week event is will be the pageant.  Alexis Rodney

Lethem Town Week is an annual event which is in its second year and aims to showcase the unique offerings of Lethem and the overall diversity of the Rupununi. This year, the activities will

Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings-Williams[centre] with the delegates at her office at the Ministry of the Presidency.

dence and I would like to see how you proceed after the pageant with your various platforms… I wish each and every one of you, success and hope that you achieve your own goals, whatever they may be,” the First Lady said.

be held under the theme “Celebrating Transformation, Diversity and Uniqueness in 2018”.  Isaiah Braithwaite Images: Keno George and the Ministry of the Presidency

PAGE 12

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

PRESIDENT GRANGER CELEBRATES INDIGENOUS HERITAGE IN SHULINAB

Villages such as Shulinab, located in the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo Region must strive to realise their economic potential, President David Granger said at this year’s Indigenous Heritage Day celebrations. The President focused his speech on economic prosperity even as he presented $5 million dollars

to the village’s Toshao, Nicholas Fredericks for the enhancement of his village. Shulinab is expected to become a model community, said the head-of-state who noted that the village has the human and natural resources to realise its true potential. He pointed to the village’s natural attractions, fertile farmlands and grasslands, vibrant community groups and leadership. “Shulinab is a forward-looking village, not a sleepy outpost,” said President Granger who urged the residents of Shulinab to be proud of their heritage and patrimony. Shulinab, he said, must utilize its resources to enhance the livelihoods of its residents. He reminded that Shulinab has lands for the development of a strong livestock and dairy sector and is also the home of some of the rarest birds, including the Red Siskin and the Ruby Topaz. The President believes that the development

of Shulinab’s eco-tourism will attract more persons to the village to bask in the village’s scenic beauty. Noting that he is concerned about economy of

Meanwhile, Toshao of Shulinab and Chairman of the National Toshaos Council Nicholas Fredericks called on residents to work in unity for the betterment of the indigenous peoples and partic-

President Granger examines some of the items on display and for sale

villages, President Granger said he would like to see Shulinab become “an economic powerhouse”. He noted that villages not only in the hinterland but also on the coast are being empowered to become centerpieces of development so that

ularly children. “We have to reflect on the important values that we have contributed towards building this very important nation. It is with that reflection that we celebrate, and we want to make sure our

President Granger shares a light moment with this beautiful little girl.

One of the cultural performances at the Heritage Day celebrations

Villagers participating in the weaving competition

residents would no longer need to leave to avoid poverty. As such, he noted that the revitalization of villages is a means of ensuring sustainable and secure livelihoods as well as village democracy and stronger village economies. “We live economic lives and in the final analysis it is how we manage our economy that will determine whether we can enjoy that good life. That is why I am pleased to hear your Toshao discuss the agricultural potential of this community,” the head-of-state said.

celebrations are more meaningful, realistic that would lead us to an end result that will be positive for both the government and us the indigenous people as we move forward.” Other speakers at the Heritage Day celebrations include Ministers of Indigenous Peoples Affairs, Sydney Allicock and. Valerie Garrido-Lowe, Regional Chairman Brian Allicock and Cyril Solomon, of the South Rupununi Development Council who all alluded to the achievements of people of Region Nine. 

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

PAGE 13

VETERAN INDIGENOUS ARTIST STEPHANIE HENELA CORREIA HONORED This year, the show honours the late Stephanie Henela Correia, a veteran artist, whose work can be found in collections all over the world, was honored at this year’s Heritage Art Exhibition. The exhibition, at the National Art Gallery, Castellani House, beautifully showcases the works of Correia, and other veteran and debutant, indigenous artists. Correia was born in Moruca and is the daughter of the late Stephen Campbell, Guyana’s first Indigenous parliamentarian and Umblina Campbell. First Lady Sandra Granger and Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe, were among those in attendance.

Stephanie Henela Correia

Minister Garrido-Lowe remarked that the skills of indigenous artisans were not taught in schools, but instead passed down from generation to generation, and have remained an integral part of

the culture of the Indigenous Peoples of Guyana. Late artist Stephanie Henela Correia, holds a place of honour, Minister Garrido-Lowe emphasised. Correia enjoyed travelling with her father and

Some of the paintings on display

First Lady, Sandra Granger and Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe among those who attended the event.

KARRAU CELEBRATES ANCESTRAL SKILLS AND WAY OF LIFE

Villagers displaying traditional wares at the Heritage celebration Resident of Lower Mazaruni was urged to “remember the old ways,” as they commemorated Heritage Month 2018. “They say the younger generation is losing touch of the ancestors’ skills and ways of life. While it is good to adapt to the modern world, it is still important to understand the ways of our ancestors, especially in uncertain economic times... I hope we the younger generation will take the steps to learn the ways of our people so that our rich culture will not fade away and die,” Toshao

of Karrau, Romeo Smith urged at heritage celebration in the village. The celebration saw a number of Indigenous foods, drinks, crafts, cultural ware displayed. It garnered a number of supporters from families of neighbouring Amerindian villages in Region Seven. Toshao of Batavia, Orin Williams said, “As a sister village, we are here to support Karrau. The village council did a really good job and I am happy to be here with my group to support them.”

Also attending the heritage celebration, Region Seven Chairman, Gordon Bradford said the event is one in which residents look forward to. Visiting the region from the West Coast Demerara, Sandy Persaud said, “I heard everyone talking about the heritage and I have never been to one before, so I decided to visit this one with my friends. I think it was good.”  Crystal Stoll Image: Tejpaul Bridgemohan

visiting other Indigenous communities which awakened her interest in the rich folklore of her Amerindian heritage. Her artistic ability was noticed very early by her parents. In 1950, she was called to Georgetown to attend the Guyana Teachers Training College where she graduated as a Class 1 Trained Teacher, won the first place in her batch of 24 and the Bain Grey Prize for the most outstanding student. Her art Tutor was the renowned E.R Burrowes. In 1955, Stephanie married Vincent Correia and resigned from teaching. Correia’s husband worked for the Interior Department and was required to move from district to district. Whenever Stephanie visited the various districts, she would take notes and make sketches of rock paintings, petroglyphs and hieroglyphics. Her piece Kabakaburi Music, completed in 1998, is a fascinating engrossing watercolour piece and is perhaps one of her best in portraying, encompassing and blending various themes harmoniously together. Stephanie Correia was awarded the Medal of Service (M.S) in 1980 for her dedication to the arts and for the creative use of Indigenous materials and designs. In 1996, she was also awarded the Golden Arrow of Achievement (A.A). Shortly after her death in 2000, Castellani House staged a tribute to her themed "Sharing Remembrances of Stephanie Correia". Other pieces on display at this year’s exhibition included both paintings and sculptures done by veteran artists George Simon, Desmond Alli, and Oswald Husain, as well as, Welkie George and Jerry Marco, Ransford Simon and Deborah Mathias among others.  Synieka Thorne Images: Tejpaul Bridgemohan

PAGE 14

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

Craftswoman, Elizabeth Williams

QUALITY CRAFT MADE IN

The brainchild of Dr. Suresh Narine, Director of the Institute Applied Science and Technology (IAST), the Morning Glory rice cereal is produced at a manufacturing facility in Anna Regina on the Essequibo CoastDepartment of Public Information spoke to artisan, Elizabeth Williams who is a member of the Kamuni Women’s Development Association. This group of enterprising women is known for their eye-catching handcrafted items. Operating in the arts and crafts industry for over thirty years, 52-year-old Elizabeth Williams is a member of the Kamuni Women’s Development Association. This group of over 30 enterprising women is known for their eye-catching handcrafted items produced from local products within their community. The artistan who spoke to the Department of Public Information specializes in making hand fans, jewellery boxes, bags, fruit bowls and tibisiri skirts with material from the eta palm tree. The mother of five explained that many women in the Santa Mission area, especially those who are part of the craft centre rely heavily on their trade to sustain their livelihoods. As such many of them operate on a daily basis crafting various items. With a growing membership, Williams calls on the younger generation in Santa Mission to be proactive and enrol in various skills training programmes that will ensure they are marketable or can manage their own ventures. “What motivates me is the fact of getting my own money. I do not have to depend on my husband and I always like my own money. I would say to the young people to stick to quality work because that is what Santa Mission’s name is for

done the Santa Mission way “Quality Standard Work.” She encourages all Guyanese to buy local and support native artisans and producers. “We have the craft centre where we put out our stuff; which is in the area where Gerry Gouveia has his tourist spot. Whenever the tourists pass through they have to stop in Santa Mission and they would purchase craft or whatever they want.” Persons can make special orders on 611-2652. Williams said she foresees the business escalating as new techniques are being utilized daily.  Crystal Stoll Images: Jameel Mohamed

Some of the hand fans, jewellery box, fruit bowls and other items made with tibisiri material from the eta palm tree

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

? LGE E D I T O R I A L

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS

An opportunity to influence change The Local Government Elections held in March 2016, was historic because it restored a most vital component of democratic governance after an absence of over two decades. There was hardly any question as to its continued omission, since it allowed for a system of control by the then political administration, thereby shutting out the democratic rights of the citizens at the grass roots level. The re-institution of LGE has ensured that the exercise of the democratic will is now a matter of fact; therefore, it will not be the subject of a discourse here; except, that the number of citizens participating in its process should give cause for concern. According to reported figures, it is observed that less than 50% of those eligible to cast their votes, actually did so: 47.1% or 239,070 votes cast, out of 507, 584 eligible voters. Compare this statistic to that of voter participation in the May 2015 national and regional elections, of 71.02% voter participation, or 415, 970, out of 585,727 registered to vote. One will immediately observe the differentiation in understanding and interest of citizens in each of these two important constitutional exercises. Though the high voter turn-out at the 2015 electoral exercise, certainly underlines the importance that citizens place in the election of their nation’s leaders; citizens must also be aware that local government elections is similarly important to the democratic process, since it affords the opportunity to be very active and practical participants in the affairs of their respective regions, municipalities, and neighbourhood democratic councils(NDCs), in terms of the quality of life, and material well-being that are present in their communities. In every democratic state, there are two systems of government that are vital to its proper administrative functioning: Central government, which is about the management of national affairs; and that of local government, which focuses on daily matters that affect the lives of citizens at the local level, be it town, or village. It is not administratively possible for any central government to oversee any country, without the linked structure of local government. This explains why, over time, the mechanism of local government has been created with the gradual transference of specific responsibilities and functions to allow it to discharge its daily obligations. The establishing of Guyana’s first Local Government Commission is an example of this ar-

rangement. It therefore means that for the system of local government, its administrative authority will be the Commission, as ordained by the Constitution. However, local government is about the real exercise of citizens’ power at the community level, and their use of such, in being able to elect the representatives of their choice, who they consider are best able to manage the affairs of their communities. In this process, citizens and communities are capable of determining what is best for their respective locales and influencing the socio-economic growth and direction of these districts. The reality is that citizens can play a part in the system which significantly impacts change in their communities. We must be reminded that the return to local government democracy is being implemented with the stated position of the coalition government that there will be no interference by its executive arm, in the daily functions of this very important aspect of governance. Instead, there will be a working together by both arms. As such there should be more urgency on the part of citizens to want to be participants in the way that their Regions, Municipalities, and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils are governed. And this is particularly important, given the fact that the new vision - democracy at the local level - involves responsibilities for tax collecting, and finance raising measures for implementation of socio-economic initiatives for the continued well-being of communities and citizens. This is in addition to the introduction of very important public services such as banking, finance, passport facilities, as well as that for registration of births and deaths, which are already present in some regions. Surely, communities would want to ensure the proper delivery of these services. But they can only do so, by being part of local governance with their participation, and right of choice. Of course, given the realities of Guyana’s modern political history that is full of challenges of race and ethnicity, and its well-known offshoot of discrimination, there will be need for the realisation that success is only guaranteed by working together, while at the same time overcoming those differences. It also offers opportunities at fostering social cohesion. Remember, voter participation in local government elections allows you to determine what is good for your community and gives the right to do so. 

PAGE 15

DID YOU KNOW?

HOW DID KAIETEUR FALLS GET ITS NAME?

Legend has it that the waterfall draws its name from a selfless Patamona Amerindian chief named Kai. In an effort to appease the Great Spirit Makonaima, Kai sacrificed himself to save his tribe from the vengeful Caribs. Appeasing gods takes

bold acts and Kai outdid himself by paddling over the point where the Potaro River tumbles into the gorge below. If nothing else, he succeeded in getting a natural wonder named after him (teur means ‘falls’ in a local dialect). 

Meet our team

Tejpaul Bridgemohan Senior Videographer

PAGE 16

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

INFORMATION PAGE

Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs 251-252 Quamina & Thomas Street, South Cummingsburg, Georgetown Tele: 227-5067, 223-7285, 225-8416, 225-6644 Fax: 223 1616 Email: indigenousaffairsgy@gmail.com Craft Shop: 223-7392 Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Annex 290 Thomas Street, South Cummingsburg, Georgetown. Tele: 225-6644 Social Welfare and Health Department 216 Princess Street Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown. Tele: 227-5766/225-8435

Hinterland Scholarship Division–Hinterland Student Dormitory Senior Social Worker -Rosemond Daley Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara. Tele: 222-2542 Indigenous Residences (Amerindian Hostel) Administrator-Claire Emmanuel 216 Princess Street, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown. Tele: 226-2620

Police Stations

Charity: 771-4142 Bartica: 455-2222 Lethem Immigration Complex: 772-2248 Lethem Enquires: 772-2087 Lethem Hotline: 772-2005 Lethem Immigration Department: 772-2011 Mabaruma: 777-5007 Mabura: 655-6725 Mahdia: 638-8440 Port Kaituma: 777-4007

Contact numbers for key personnel in the ‘F’ Division (Interior Locations) Divisional Commander Senior Superintendent K. Adonis Cell: 641-5609/673-4474 Office: 455-2238

Chairman–Joel Fredericks Tele: 617-4385 Deputy Chair - Lennox Shuman Tele: 659-7983

Office #

Cell #

Brenthol Ashley

777-5029

666-4048

bpsa.rc1@gmail.com

Devanand Ramdat

771-4325

625-3604

rc2ramdatt@gmail.com

Julius Faerber

264-2692

640-4084

juliusf_region3@yahoo.com

Genevieve Allen

220-8917

609-7549

gennyallenregion4@yahoo.com

Vickchand Ramphal

232-0308

694-8382

chairman_rdc5@yahoo.com

Permaul David

333-3761

623-6797

david.armogan@yahoo.com

Armogan 7

Gordon Bradford

455-2224

602-1029

rcregion7@yahoo.com

Bonadventure

691-5203

fredericksregion8rc@yahoo.com

Fredericks 9

Bryan Allicock

772-2018

648-7969

rcofficeregion9@gmail.com

Renis Morian

444-6121

694-9552

renismorian@yahoo.com

Regional Vice Chairpersons (RVCs)

In-Charge Traffic Sgt. N. Noel Cell: 619-8984 Office: 455-2267 Community Relations Officer Sgt. M. Calder Cell: 676-6245 Office: 455-2328

Officer- in-Charge No. 2 (Lethem Police Station) Superintendent P. Azore Cell: 603-8587 Office: 772-2087

Region

RVC

Office #

Cell #

Sarah Browne

680-0778

Angelina_browne@yahoo.com

Nandranie Coonjah

771-4281

621-5092

coonjahjuliet@yahoo.com

Mohamed Ayube

264-2330

695-5384

regionaldemocraticcouncil@yahoo.com

Earl Lambert

220-8917

617-7519

jacquepam@yahoo.com

Rion Peters

232-0306

614-0079

rionpeters@yahoo.com

Denis Deroop

609-9143

vicechairman6@yahoo.com

Olinda Griffith

Radio Contact: 225-4613

603-6037

Rcregion7@yahoo.com

Headley Pio

Radio Contact: 5735 Kato

Karl Singh

772-2223

604-1160

Karl.singh44@yahoo.com

Elroy Adolph

444-2035

690-8997

Admins

Officer- in-Charge No. 3 (Maburuma Police Station) Assistant Superintendent E. Baird Cell: 694-1664 Office: 777-5007 Officer -in-Charge No. 4 (Port Kaituma Police Station) Inspector M. Grant Cell: 602-7853 Office: 777-4007 Officer- in-Charge No. 5 (Kamarang Police Station) Inspector S. Houston Cell: 691-8741 Officer- in-Charge Mahdia (Mahdia Police Station) Inspector M. Small Cell: 670-8215/638-8440

Secretary - Eyon Boyal Tele: 660-0003

Region

Divisional Detective Inspector (Crime) Inspector A. Flatts Cell: 662-1282

SUB-DIVISIONAL OFFICERS Officer -in-Charge No. 1 (Bartica Police Station) Assistant Superintendent S. Shivbarran Cell: 645-2669 Home: 455-2241

National Toshao Council Secretariat

Regional Chairpersons (RCs)

MAYORS Regions

Towns

Mayor

Mabaruma

Henry Smith

Anna Regina

Rabindranauth Mohan

Georgetown

Patrica Chase-Green

Office #

Cell # 600-3715 671-3398

226-0137

683-5020 / 649-5916

New Amsterdam

Winifred Haywood

333-6682

609-7715

Rose Hall

Vijay Ramoo

337-4223

604-2036

Corriverton

Krishnand Jaichand

Bartica

Gifford Marshall

455-0248

608-7771 / 616-0925

Lethem

Kerry Jarvis

772-2028

690-4927

Linden

Waneka Arrindell

444-8357

614-2124

Regional Health Facilities

612-7710

DEPUTY MAYORS

Region

Name of Facility

Type of Facility

Facility #

Kumaka/Moruca

District Hospital

Radio

Regions

Towns

Deputy Mayor

Mabaruma

Astrille Odetta Gamell

Mabaruma

Regional Hospital

777-5015/5057/Radio

Pakera/Matthew Ridge

District Hospital

777-9284

Anna Regina

Darshan Persaud

Georgetown

Akeem Peter

New Amsterdam

Compton Grant

Office#

Cell #

219-0687/ 231-4041

601-2127

625-8191

Port Kaituma

District Hospital

777-4047/ Radio

Bartica

Health Centre

455-2339/2846

Bartica

Regional Hospital

455-2339/2846

Rose Hall

Dave Budhu

337-4648

Kamarang

District Hospital

Radio

Corriverton

Jamna Persaud Ghamandhi

339-2331

Kato

Cottage Hospital

Radio

Bartica

Nageshwari Lochanprasad

Mahdia

District Hospital

Radio

Lethem

Maxine Ann Welch

Lethem

Regional Hospital

772-2006,2206, Radio

Linden

Wainwright Bethune

615-9395

608-1455

697-0976 444-8357

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

PAGE 17

INFORMATION PAGE Regional Executive Officers (REOs) Region

REO

Office #

Contact #

Leslie Wilburg

777-5011

629-1191

lesronwil2002@yahoo.com

Rupert Hopkinson

771-4232

614-1070

ruperthopkinson@yahoo.com

Denis Jaikarran

264-2261

626-7383

regionaldemocraticcouncil@yahoo.com

Pauline Lucas

220-8912

626-0040

reo.rdcregion4@gmail.com

Ovid Morrison

232-0292

619-1272

reo_regfive@yahoo.com

Kim Stephens

640-6395

reo_reg6@yahoo.com

Roderick Edinboro

455-2261

638-2511

reoregion7@yahoo.com

Carl Parker

602-4475

Kerwin Warde

772-2021

668-9534

reooffice_region9@yahoo.com

Orin Gordon

444-6056

624-8891

Managing Editor

Editor-in-Chief

Imran Khan

Ernestine Leonard

Contributing writers:

Photography:

Synieka Thorne, Isaiah Braithwaite, Tiffny Rhodius, Stacy Carmichael, Delicia Haynes, Gabreila Patram, Ranetta LaFleur, Neola Damon,

Wishart, Tejpaul Bridgemohan, Anil Seelall, Karime Peters, Leon Leung, Ackeem Thomas

Alexis Rodney.

DREO

Office

Contact #

Tikiram Bissessar

777-5110

667-1832

tikirambisesar2@gmail.com

Roopkumar

638-3598

rooppersaud58@gmail.com

Ameena Hinds

264-3040

660-3874

Deryck Persaud

678-3841

persaudderyck@yahoo.com

Govind Singh

232-0305

610-2170

govindsingh@yahoo.com

Bhadase Poonai

333-2711

639-2012

bhadasep@gmail.com

of Social Cohesion, Ministry

Sunil Singh

455-0262

680-0950

sun_a1966@yahoo.com

Gavin Gounga

622-6101/ 679 7907

gavingounga@gmail.com

of Education and Ministry of

Maylene Stephens

444-6707

642-7209

maylene_stephen@yahoo.com

Layout and Design: Xcess Interactive

Text and Photos also by Ministry of the Presidency, Ministry of Indigenous Peoplesâ€™ Affair, Ministry

Communities.

9 10

Kennyann Bacchus, Kawise

Crystal Stoll, Kidackie Amsterdam,

Deputy Regional Executive Officers (DREOs) Region

Keno George, Jameel Mohamed,

Department of

Public Information

Town Clerks Regions

Towns

Town Clerk

Office#

Cell #

Mabaruma

Barrington Ward

Anna Regina

Diane Critchlow

771-4302

674-0799

Georgetown

Royston King

226-4190

623-7771

New Amsterdam

Sharon Alexander

333-2667

613-7079

Rose Hall

Choy Edwards

337-4882

Corriverton

Narendranauth

339-3194

663-0304

/dpiguyana

@dpiguyana

/dpiguyana

@dpiguyana

dpi.gov.gy

dpi@dpi.gov.gy

Homestretch Avenue, DurbanPark, Georgetown. Tele:225-4255,226-6715, 226-8849 Fax: 226-6005 Email: dpi@dpi.gov.gy or www.dpi.gov.gy

684-3944

Get social with us

Sukhram 7

Bartica

Phebe Wallerson

455-2229

678-7043

Lethem

Keisha Vincent

772-2028

667-1926

Linden

Orleena Obermuller (ag)

444-4010

667-1746

Hinterland Radio Stations

Radio Paiwomak

Radio Mahdia

Radio Lethem

Radio Orealla

Radio Mabaruma

Radio Bartica

Radio Aishalton

PAGE 18

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

One on One Ronald Bulkan Minister of Communities Personal

1. Birth Name: Ronald Azam Bulkan 2. Birth date: Ronald Bulkan was born on February 6, 1958. 3. Childhood: Minister Bulkan spent his younger days in West Berbice on the Corentyne before moving to Symth Street in Georgetown. 4. Children: He is the proud father of a son aged 29 and daughter 27. 5. Religion: Ronald describes himself as a non-church goer. 6. Organisations: He is actively involved in the Queens College Cadet Corps, Guyana Human Rights Association, the Working People’s Alliance and People’s National Congress. 7. Idol/Mentor: Aside from his parents, Minister Bulkan admires Dr. Martin Luther King for his towering intellect, incorruptible character and exemplary moral courage. 8. Greatest Fear: Being Misunderstood 9. Biggest Regret: He regrets not spending more time with his children during their formative years. 10. Passions: While he does not claim to have any particular passion, Minister Bulkan abhors what he terms ‘fake persons’.

Favourites

11. Quote: “To educate a man in mind and not in morals is to educate a menace to society” by Teddy Roosevelt, because it reminds us that human depravities are nothing new. 12. Food: Minister Bulkan enjoys simple fare. Curry (shrimp, fish) and rice; local vegetables (carila, okra, same, etc); boiled and fried provisions. Fried fish. His mother’s pilau. 13. Place: He has been exceedingly fortunate to have visited many parts of Guyana. 14. Pastime: Enjoying his own company 15. Song: Among his favourite singers would be Paul Simon, George Ben-

son and Sam Cooke. 16. Childhood memory: Included in Minister Bulkan’s memories are those of growing up in different parts of rural Guyana and visiting relatives. Listening live to Basil Butcher making his maiden test double century - 209 n.o. against England in 1966 at Trent Bridge. Seeing test cricket for the first time –W.I. v England at Bourda in 1968, a match in which Kanhai made 150 and Sobers 152 in a first innings partnership of 250. Though by this time he was no longer a child. 17. Book: The two books that have impacted him greatly are, Robert Bolt’s ‘A Man for all Seasons’ and Harper Lee’s ‘To Kill a Mockingbird. 18. Sport: As you can tell cricket. 19. Colour: His favourite is blue

Politics

20. How he came to politics: Minister Bulkan came of age absolutely detesting the fact that the country lacked unrepresented government which created a visceral antipathy against the state, in him. 21. Ministerial appointment: He is honoured to have been offered the post of Guyana’s first Minister of Communities by President David Granger. Minister Bulkan understood that the job came with the proviso that it entailed much work and the understanding that were he then or ever unprepared he would be expected to GO. 22. Dream/Vision for Guyana: A country where social cohesion is present, which he feels is dependent on many factors. One such is the presence of the ‘crossover vote’ - where persons cast their votes based on merit of the contesting candidates and parties and not on race. 23. How does he handle the pressures that come with the job: He tells himself that if he were not here, then someone else would be grappling with the very issues.

24. What is most rewarding about his job: Minister Bulkan finds satisfaction in being able to assists others. 25. What skill he wants to add to his repertoire: He feels adding a bit more structure to his tasks will add to his job. 26. Misconception that people have about him: Maybe that he is aloof? 27. What does he plan to accomplish in 10, 20 years personally and professionally: Professionally, Minister Bulkan’s is optimistic his

efforts will contribute to a decentralized government being a feature of governance, in accordance with Constitutional provisions. This in turn will see the presence of effective local democracy and significant devolution of power to local democratic organs, namely: Regional Democratic Councils, municipalities and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils. Personally, he plans to pay more attention to his health, particularly to resume an exercise regimen.

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

PAGE 19

PAGE 20

National Toshaos Council Executive

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

Guyana is our homeland

Nicholas Fredericks - Chairman Shulinab, Region Nine

Paul Pierre Kwebanna, Region One

Russian Dorrick - Secretary Yupukari, Region Nine

Marbel Thomas - Treasurer Campbelltown, Region Eight

Loretta Fiedtkou - Asst Sec/Treasurer Muritaro, Region Ten

Sharmain Rambajue Baramita, Region One

Elizebeth Ramacindo Bumbery Hill, Region One

Howard Cornelius Wakapoa, Region Two

Ralph Hendricks Capoey, Region Two

Hilton Williams Santa Mission, Region Three

Beverly Clenkian Pakuri, Region Four

Colin Adrian Moraikobai, Region Five

Carl Peneux, Orealla, Region Six

Orin Willians Batavia, Region Seven

John Spencer Tasserene, Region Seven

Mario Hastings Kako, Region Seven

Charles Lewis Kanapang, Region Eight

Edward McGarrell Chenapou, Region Eight

Zacharias Norman Annai Central, Region Nine

Ricky Boyle Kimbia, Region Ten

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

PAGE 21

HINTERLAND Children’s Corner

Boys and Girls, welcome to our children’s corner. The Children’s

National Symbol

Folk Song

Seven Hundred and eighty-six species have been documented as occurring in Guyana including the Black Hawk-Eagle

THE SONG OF GUYANA’S CHILDREN

Birds of Guyana

Corner offer a variety of activities that encourages our young readers

Born in the land of the mighty

to think, create both pictures and stories, and learn in a fun way.

Roraima,

Land of great rivers and far stretching sea;

So like the mountain, the sea and the river

The Black Hawk-Eagle

Great, wide and deep in our lives would we be; Chorus:

Onward, upward, may we ever go

Day by day in strength and beauty grow,

Till at length we each of us may show,

What Guyana’s sons and daughters can be.

Place of Interest:

Stephen Campbell Monument The Stephen Campbell Monument is located a short distance away from the Heroes of Moruca Monument and pays homage to Stephen Campbell. This monument was built to commemorate

the life of Stephen Campbell who was the first Indigenous person to be elected into Parliament on September 10, 1957. This monument was built with self-help in 1995.

CARTOONS

The Black Hawk-Eagle is a large, black raptor of Neotropical forests. It has a prominent crest, is blackish with narrow white barring below, and broad gray bars on the tail. In flight, this species has a distinctive silhouette with broad, paddle-shaped wings and a rather long tail. This hawk-eagle occurs in both open and dense forests, and is the most frequently seen of the Neotropical forest eagles. Individuals often soar high overhead, where they attract attention with sharp, whistled calls. They feed on mammals, birds, and reptiles, taken largely from trees and detected from a favorite perch. The stick nest is placed in the canopy, where it is often supported by branches and vines. 

Born in the land of Kaieteur’s shining splendour

Land of the palm tree, the croton and fern,

We would possess all the virtues and graces,

We all the glory of goodness would learn.

Born in the land where men sought El Dorado,

Land of the Diamond and bright shining gold,

We would build up by our faith, love and labour,

God’s golden city which never grows old.

Thus to the land which to us God has given

May our young lives bring a gift rich and rare,

Thus, as we grow, may the worth of Guyana

Shine with a glory beyond all compare.

PAGE 22

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

HINTERLAND

FIND YOUR WAY THROUGH THE MAZE 

Children’s Corner

FIND YOUR WAY THROUGH THE MAZE 



STORY TIME

INDIGENOUS TRIBES OF GUYANA The Amerindians were the first set of people who came to what is known as the Guiana’s. They came from eastern part of Asia and crossed the ice bridge called the Bering Strait in search of food and shelter. Today in Guyana there are, correctly speaking, four main tribes, namely the Warraus, Arawaks, Wapisianas and the Caribs, which include several sub tribes, Arrecunas, Akawaios, Patamonas, and the Macusis. The Wai-wais are also included in the Carib-speaking group.

Waraus: • Being inhabitants of the swampy district, the Waraus are excellent fishermen and boat builders; they are also inventors of the dugout canoe, which was the earliest sea worthy vessel some 5000 years ago. Wapishanas: • Described as more agriculturists than hunters and fishers, they were once noted for being the major traders and canoe makers of the region. They also excel in the making of cotton hammocks, a skill they are supposed to have learned from the Makusi.

Arawaks (Lokono) • They also occupied the Corentyne River around 2000 years ago, leaving their unique type of rock engraving, Timehri.

Arekunas • They were a powerful tribe who were the growers and suppliers of cotton to the other tribes, especially with the Makusi.

Caribs (Karinya) • The Caribs are the people who gave the Caribbean area its name and the word ‘Carib’ is used to refer to many Amerindian groups scattered throughout the Caribbean islands and South American mainland, north of the Amazon.

Wai wais • The Wai Wais were skilled weavers and bead workers and the traditional Wai Wai architecture, exemplified in the Umana Yana, is considered by many Guyanese as the embodiment of Amerindian architecture.

Patamona • The Patamona nation is the one to which the mystical figure ‘Old Kaie’ belonged. Old Kaie is the Amerindian Chief in the legend which explains how the magnificent Kaieteur Falls got its name.

Akawaios • The peddlers and news carriers along the coast, this nation was warlike and aggressive and was also noted for their blowpipes. Once an Akawaio is a friend he remains that way, but once an enemy he is an enemy for life. They were so dreaded that the other nations left them alone and they became very independent. 

The Makusi • This nation was described as one of the most beautiful ones in Guyana; they were uniquely skilled in the preparation of the deadly ‘curare’ poison.

YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE TO

Hinterland Highlights Hinterland Highlights invites readers to contribute to its columns. Send us news about activities in your villages. Do you have a short story, poetry, news item, recipe, humour or quotation? Do you have a photograph you would like us to publish? Send them to us for publication.

This is your newspaper.

Write or email us and let us know what you think about it and how we can improve it. Contact us at Homestretch Avenue, Durban Park, Georgetown. Tele:225-4255,226-6715, 226-8849 Fax: 226-6005 Email: dpi@dpi.gov.gy or www.dpi.gov.gy

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

PAGE 23

TIP AWARENESS SESSION HELD AT INDIGENOUS GAMES

Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Coordinator (ag) Oliver Profitt took the opportunity to conduct a

Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Coordinator (ag), Oliver Profitt

TIP awareness exercise during the Indigenous Heritage Games that were held at the Everest Sports Ground. In an invited comment to the Department of Public Information, Profitt said the TIP task force

saw the sporting event as an opportunity to raise awareness since most times, the act is carried out in the hinterland regions. Profitt said “we thought it was a good idea to come out here while all of those communities are coming together to have a little discussion with persons and also let them know that we here. If they have anything they need to report or questions they want to ask with regards to trafficking in persons, maybe they would like us to come to their community to have an interactive session, we are here and we are available.” Profit said that the feedback from spectators at the event was amazing with some even making recommendations. One such suggestion was to have a more cohesive inter-agency collaboration among the various ministries to better tackle the issue and also seek ways to provide income for persons living there since job opportunities are scarce. Proffit said that those recommendations along with the other will be taken on board. He also highlighted that the task force will also be visiting a number of schools to raise awareness on TIP. These include Houston Secondary, Covent Garden Secondary, Friendship Secondary, Soesdyke Secondary and Diamond Secondary. It is expected that school sessions will focus largely on students from Forms One to Five. The main idea Proffit said is to let them know TIP is real and that anyone can be targetted. “We know that young persons are being targetted a lot so we want to make them aware that trafficking in persons exists; let them know what it is and how they can protect themselves so that they can be on board with us,” he stated. Over the past twenty months, the Task Force with the support of its member agencies has been conducting a series of training courses for various stakeholders and will continue to do likewise to combat the crime of TIP. Guyana’s fight against TIP has seen it maintaining its Tier one status in the US State’s Department of State’s TIP report for 2017.  Isaiah Braithwaite Image: Leon Leung

Residents of Karrau enjoy a friendly football game on the newly constructed football field

NIGHT GAMES TO KICK OFF IN KARRAU Residents of the Indigenous village of Karrau in Region Seven are now enjoying their newly constructed football field.

Toshao of Karrau, Romeo Smith

Toshao of Karrau, Romeo Smith commissioned the field which is fully equipped with several floodlights, at the Karrau Heritage Day celebration. The project was funded through a collaborative effort between the government and the Karrau village and the regional council. Toshao Smith said, “we had a lot of self-help;

many of the community members came out to make this project a success.” He noted the village has undertaken several other projects of recent. “We are moving forward. I think once we continue at this pace with project developments, this village will see a lot of improvements within the next few years,” Smith said. The Toshao added that soon the village will establish a second well in the higher lands of Karrau. This, he noted, will see persons in those areas provided with access to potable water “at their doorsteps.” Chairman of Region Seven, Gordon Bradford commended the development in the village. He highlighted that work has been completed on the lower flat of the Karrau Creek Primary School and the council will soon commence work on the upper flat. Bradford praised the Infrastructure Ministry for recent road work development carried out in the village. “Mini-buses and cars can now traverse in the area. Roadworks were done from Karrau to Blue Mountain area, and this is good for the village.” The chairman recognised the pace at which the community is developing and pledged further the development of the villages in the region.  Crystal Stoll Image: Tejpaul Bridgemohan

ARCHERY, KAYAKING FOR HINTERLAND SCHOOLS The sport of archery and kayaking are expected to be formally introduced into hinterland schools come 2019. These include schools in Regions One, Seven, Eight, Nine and sections of Region Ten. This was disclosed by the Director of Sport, Christopher Jones, during an interview with the Department of Public Information. Jones said that the emergence of these sport is catered for in the 2019 National Budget proposals by the National Sports Commission. In March of this year, Archery Guyana held a historic Level 1 Archery Coaching Course with

participants from across the country. According to Jones, that was just the first step. Now, the NSC is seeking to make a conscious effort and take it directly to those in the hinterland regions. “In some of the outlying regions they use the arrow and bow to hunt for food so it is just a matter of teaching them the technique and that is why we are so confident that in those outlying regions, we can find archers that can very soon represent Guyana regionally and internationally” Jones stated. As it relates to kayaking, the Sport Director announced earlier this year his intention to host a

kayaking workshop similar to that of the archery coaching course. He noted that once the proposals in the budget are approved, equipment for the sport will be purchased to begin the process. Jones stated that “not excluding other regions but focusing on the regions that have the riverine communities such as Regions One, Seven, Eight and parts of Nine and even Region Ten, we want to introduce kayaking to those regions first and of course spread that sport around.” Additionally, in April 2018, a group of women from the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland completed the first kayaking expedition along the

entire Essequibo River. The three-woman team was accompanied by local Indigenous tour guides and a Toshao from the Wai-Wai nation. The expedition entailed visits to the Indigenous communities of Konashen, Fairview, Apoteri, and Iwokrama. The move to formally introduce the sport of archery and kayaking in the hinterland region forms part of the government’s efforts to have sport in Guyana developed countrywide; moving away from it being centred mainly on the coastland.  Isaiah Braithwaite

PAGE 24

HINTERLAND HIGHLIGHTS - October 2018

TOP HINTERLAND TEAMS CLASH AT

INDIGENOUS HERITAGE GAME

Guyana Rush Saints of Region Nine poses with their trophy. Also, in the picture, Ministers Sydney Allicock, Valerie Garrido-Lowe, Dawn HastingsWilliams and PS Alfred King.

The men and women’s football teams of Port Kaituma and Paruima; Mahdia and St. Cuthbert’s men and women’s cricket teams; and the Moruca and Waramuri men and women’s volleyball teams defended their respective titles when during the 2018 Indigenous games. Some athletes from Indigenous villages countrywide participated in the games, over a period of three days. Swimmers from the Barima-Waini Region once again dominated the Indigenous Heritage Games swim meet. This event was held at the National Aquatic Centre, Liliendaal. The team ended 158 points ahead of second place finishers Mahaica-Berbice (Region Five) and miles ahead of Essequibo Islands-West Demerara (Region Three) who finished third with 102 points. Region Two finished fourth with 43 points while Regions Four and Nine tied for the fifth position with 24 points each. Region One came prepared to defend their title, arriving with a full team and participating in every swim event and dominating the other regions in both the male and female category. Some races saw swimmers from Region One claiming first, second, third and sometimes fourth

and fifth position. In the boys 13-14 25-metre freestyle, Region One dominated the rest of the swimmers with Travis Smith finishing first with 13.44s, Nelson Lucas in second clocking 13.62s and Kemol Williams finished third in 14.81s, all from Region One. It was a repeat performance in girls 13-14 girls 25-metre freestyle. Allianna Charles finished first clocking 17.13s, Jenel Braithwaite came in second with 18.81s and Madonna Lucas finished third in 20.21s, all from Region One as well. On the other side of the Indigenous games at the Everest Sports Ground, archery, volleyball and cricket took centre stage with some exciting action and stiff competition from both the men and the women. Last year’s title holder for archery Aliyah Gordon representing Region Four was dethroned by her mother in this year’s event. Nevertheless, Gordon said that she is having fun and was amazed by the some of the talent displayed especially in that of volleyball. “I really like the culture games, have you ever seen them play volleyball? They are very good at volleyball and football, so I like coming out to see them play” Gordon stated.

The Kartabo, Region Seven teams during the symbolic march pass

Minister of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs, Sydney Allicock gets things going while Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe, Minister of Social Cohesion Dr. George Norton, Permanent Secretary to the ministry, Alfred King and President of the Guyana Football Federation, Wayne Forde look on. Lily Williams-Edmonson who hails all the way from Campbelltown in Region Eight, said that she was there for both the excitement of the Heritage Games and to enjoy the indigenous foods. Williams-Edmonson said, “I am enjoying it because it is a time when we get to see all of our Indigenous brothers and sisters, it is also a time where it gives us the opportunity to sample all of our dishes.” In football, the women of Paurima, Region Seven retained their title in a six-goal thriller against, Gladiator FC of Region Nine than resulted in a 4-1 penalty shootout. The male football action, saw the Guyana Rush Saints of Region Nine dethroned former champions Port Kaituma 1-0 in a low scoring but action-packed match. In cricket, defending champions in male, Mahdia, Region Eight came up short, losing their title to Laluni, Region Four, on the other side, St. Cuthbert’s women, Region Four toppled Kartabo Region Seven to secure their victory. In Volleyball, Region dominated taking the title for both the male and the female. Moruca women went up against St. Cuthbert for which they made light work while the Mabaruma men in stiff competition with Bartica Region Seven, came out as winners. Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous

Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe noted that the Indigenous Heritage Games are more than just playing sports, they are an opportunity for Indigenous athletes to make their mark and represent Guyana. The minister highlighted that due to the heritage games last year, a number of Indigenous athletes are now representing Guyana in football including Ronaldo Rodrigues, Wayne DaSilva, Franklin Peters, Naomi Aaron and Shemika Atkinson. Minister of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs, Sydney Allicock echoed similar sentiments, adding that the games called upon the athletes to display discipline. “The games, our celebration, is not only a wild thing; it is about looking for the opportunity of getting better in every area of sport so that we can have something to celebrate as a nation.” Aside from having Indigenous peoples on Guyana’s national teams, Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton would like them to push themselves a bit further and aim for the world stage. That is, competing at the World Indigenous Games - a multisport event, which involves over 2,000 athletes from over 30 different countries.  Isaiah Braithwaite Images: Jules Gibson and Leon Leung