Several Amerindian communities which received government grants have shown improvement in their economic activities and this year more communities will be benefiting, the Government Information Agency (GINA) reported on Monday.

Arukamai, Manawari, Capoey, Kopinang, Kaibarupai, Kanapang, Shea, Sawaraiwau, Rupunau, Aishalton, Yakarinta and Matara are among the areas earmarked for assistance, GINA stated.

During the period 2004-2006, Government disbursed grants totalling $118.8M to 77 communities in Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine. These grants were given directly to the village councils, GINA said.

The councils were asked to submit proposals to the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs for projects which they considered absolutely necessary. Among the projects that were realized were a community hall at Paruima, a housing project at Kamarang and a community centre at Kaikan, all in Region Seven while cattle-rearing projects were done in Region Nine.

Meanwhile, a road link from Kako, Region Eight, to Waramadong in Region Seven is set to continue this year.

To manage their finances, Government has been training village councillors in accountability and finance. Training is being conducted in all Amerindian communities in order that the councils operate effectively, GINA added.