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Guyana on Friday joined the international community in celebrating World Indigenous Peoples Day, a historic milestone in advocacy and development for indigenous peoples around the world.
The day holds special significance as it commemorates the first session of the United Nations Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1982, a significant event that has since been celebrated by indigenous communities and their partners around the world.
Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, said she was proud to share this message with her Amerindian brothers and sisters in Guyana and with Indigenous peoples around the world. She stressed that this day is a powerful reminder of the invaluable contributions made by Indigenous peoples to society and the State’s ongoing responsibility to protect and promote the rights of Indigenous peoples.
The theme for this year’s World Indigenous Peoples’ Day is “Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact,” which resonates deeply with Guyana’s commitment to upholding the rights and well-being of its Amerindian peoples. While this particular theme may not directly reflect Guyana’s experience, the country recognizes the importance of ongoing discussions on this topic and is committed to continuing these conversations beyond the day of commemoration.
Minister Souke stressed that the Government of Guyana’s development strategy has always been inclusive and engaging, with a focus on supporting Amerindians through various sectors and initiatives. This includes ensuring that the rights of indigenous peoples are upheld regardless of where they are located, in line with the country’s constitutional commitment to a unified “One Guyana”.
The Minister outlined the government’s priorities for Amerindian development through economic stimulus, investment in youth and women, health care, education, leadership, tourism, agriculture and food security. She stressed that these initiatives are part of a broader development path driven by the indigenous communities themselves, and that the government will ensure inclusiveness and transparency throughout the process.
To equip Amerindian communities with the tools they need for sustainable development, the Department of Amerindian Affairs is committed to building technical and leadership capacity. Ongoing training programmes for Community Service Officers in areas such as sewing, baking, field work, tractor maintenance and solar installation are designed to empower individuals and enhance their ability to contribute meaningfully to their villages. These efforts are aimed at improving livelihood, social and economic conditions in Amerindian communities across Guyana.
Looking ahead, Minister Souke announced that in two weeks, all Indigenous leaders will come together with the Executive Branch of Government to discuss developments for Guyana’s First Peoples. This unique and powerful forum promotes inclusive and transparent engagement with Indigenous representatives. Following this, the country will celebrate its annual Amerindian Heritage Month in September, a time of national solidarity and fraternity where Guyanese will honour their Amerindian heritage, traditions and culture.
Minister Souke concluded by reaffirming the Government’s commitment to building true partnerships that promote equality and inclusion while respecting and promoting the rights of Amerindians around the world. “Happy World Indigenous Peoples Day,” she declared, “Let’s keep working!”
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