Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai presented the key to a new truck to the Toshao of Kato and an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) each to the Toshaos of Kamana, Kaibarupai, Kanapang and Chiung Mouth on Sunday during an outreach visit to Region Eight.
A release from the Government Information Agency (GINA) said that the presentations were done following a meeting held with the villages’ leaders, residents, and Community Support Officers.
It said that government has been seeking to make Amerindian communities more self-reliant by investing in sustainable economic ventures. There has been investment in farming tools and equipment, and the allocation of funds to create ventures in the case of the Community Development Project (CDPs). “It has been providing ATVs, minibuses, pick-ups, and boats to boost transportation and make life easier for Amerindians,” the release added.
Sukhai in her address noted that she was pleased that the administration was able to follow through on the promises made to the communities.
She called on the leaders on the communities, as well as residents to make the best of what was now available to them. She asked that the vehicles be used with due care and consideration.
Sukhai advised the residents that the vehicles can be used to generate income for general maintenance as well as for other projects within the communities, and asked that in doing so, consideration be given to vulnerable groups such as pensioners.
The minister also used the forum to address Community Development Officers (CSOs). She called on them to adopt a more proactive approach towards issues in their communities, urging them to work with their elected community leaders to lend support in weak areas. Sukhai also reminded them that they too are community leaders in their own right and should aim to be role models for the younger children.
GINA said that the residents and their leaders were updated on the 2014 National Budget presentation and the provisions included to benefit indigenous people and their communities. The budget proposes $1billion for rehabilitating critical hinterland roads, including the Linden to Lethem road. The sum of $796M has been allocated for the continuation of the Youth Entrepreneurial and Apprenticeship programme (YEAP) that was initiated in 2013 to benefit Amerindian youths.
