Gov’t will continue to invest in Indigenous communities to bridge gaps, strengthen their economies
WHILE the Government of Guyana has made significant advancements in developing Indigenous communities across the country, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali has said that there is an even greater need to bridge the gaps that exist.
The Head of State made these remarks at the Amerindian Heritage Month cultural extravaganza, which was held at the National Park to mark the beginning of Amerindian Heritage Month, which will be celebrated under the theme, ‘Many Voices, One Song, Celebrating Amerindian Heritage 2024’.
According to the President, the richness of the culture, and the important role played in upholding the traditions of the Amerindians and the safeguarding of the environment is what places Guyana as one of the most advanced countries in relation to the protection and celebration of Indigenous culture.
Whether it be the legislation, the land that is protected for the Indigenous Peoples, budgetary allocations, and freedom of expression, among other things, President Ali said that Guyana is doing an outstanding job in honouring to the greatest degree, the In-
digenous Peoples of this nation.
“There is no other country that can point to the type of reforms and investment we have made in honouring our Indigenous Peoples and our Amerindians,” he said.
With this, he said that Guyana may now be in a position where knowledge can be shared and the country cited for best practices for creating an enabling environment that bridges the gaps.
However, President Ali iterated, “It is necessary for us to understand that when it comes to our indigenous brothers and sisters, there is indeed a greater gap that must be
– President Ali says
bridged, and that is why, per capita, we have to invest more, so that gap can be bridged faster and faster.”
As such, he highlighted that the government has been doing just that, as from 2020 to now, almost $60 billion has been invested in Amerindian villages across the country, thereby strengthening their local economies.
These, he added, account for investments in their cultural heritage, education and healthcare among other critical things.
Giving specifics, the Head of State said major investments have been made in telemedicine in the indigenous communities, and has led to Guyana being one of the leading destinations in the region in this regard.
Just a week ago, he said, some 25 new sites were added to hinterland communities in various parts of the country.
In these communities, President Ali said resi -
dents no longer have to dream of secondary education, as the government continues to work aggressively to ensure 100 per cent access to secondary education, and with further investments in technology to also achieve 100 per cent access to university education.
Additionally, he noted that more than 20 per cent of all Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) scholarships go to indigenous youths.
“Make no mistake, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government will continue to make these critical investments for you,” President Ali expressed.
Further to this, he said that the government has been able to build and restore hope, create a resilient future, and, more importantly, see the integration of communities.
On the point of continuing to invest in the well-being of those in the indigenous communities, Dr. Ali said that the gov-
ernment, since entering office, has reinstated the Community Support Officers (CSOs).
As such, he announced that, with immediate effect, the stipend for these CSOs will be on par with the parttime workers employed by the government and increased to $40,000. Taking it a step further, senior counsellors who are community leaders and community development council leaders will now also earn $40,000.
“This will release tens of millions of dollars, again, additional money, into the community, but more importantly, it will let these leaders know that we value their service; that we recognise their service; that we acknowledge their service,” President Ali said.
The Head of state indicated that the government’s commitment is to continue to serve the people and the indigenous communities with honour and respect.
President, Dr. Irfaan Ali delivering his address to a sizeable audience
–Minister
Sukhai says
Government’s heavy investments pushing Amerindian communities forward
IN the past four years, the Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, has undertaken a number of integral development projects in Amerindian/hinterland communities to improve the lives of indigenous people throughout Guyana.
Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai, in a recent video released by the Department of Public Information (DPI), highlighted some of these developments.
She said a significant number of interventions have been rolled out, which, today, have resulted in stronger village economies and development, and the Amerindian people’s livelihood and welfare being more visible.
It was stated that the government invested 15 per cent of the revenues it received from the sale of Guyana’s carbon credits, in hinterland communities. Thus far for 2024, $2.7 billion was in -
vested in Amerindian and riverine communities, while an estimated $4.7 billion from carbon credit sales was invested in more than 800 community projects.
The minister noted that it is amazing to see how the carbon credit disbursements of monies to village councils are being utilised.
In 2023, a total of six villages received their land titles. These villages were Four Miles, Capoey Extension, Mashabo Extension, Akawini, Wakapao, and Paramakatoi.
Further, $147 million was expended to construct the National Toshaos’ Council Secretariat at Sophia, Georgetown.
Moreover, it was highlighted that the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs created employment opportunities for more than 2,000 youths as Community Service Officers. It was revealed that their total earnings were expected to
be $1 billion. Another 2000 Amerindian youths were also employed through the government’s part-time job initiative.
Meanwhile, 170 tractors and trailers were gifted to Amerindian villages, together valuing some $700 million. This is in keeping with President Irfaan Ali’s vision of tackling climate change, and
creating a favourable environment for food security.
In the area of energy security, 20,000 solar systems were installed in several hinterland communities.
During his recent visit to Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), President Ali stated: “If you look at the impact and opportunities that these investments would have cre-
ated in your community, it shows that we were able to work with you on delivering projects.”
The Head of State further highlighted that the government had invested in various areas across Guyana, including Amerindian communities, to bring back jobs that were lost under the former APNU+AFC administration
and create livelihood opportunities.
President Ali had said: “Over the last four years, we have been able, as a government, to invest heavily in your community,” pointing out that $669 million has been invested under the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, some $89million through the Ministry of Education, almost $54million through the Guyana Energy Agency, another $47 million through the Ministry of Health, and almost $18.5 million via the Ministry of Agriculture.
Additionally, a further sum of $50 million was invested by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, more than $90 million by the Ministry of Public Works, and $45 million by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport to aid in the development of Amerindian communities.
(Faith Greene)
‘Many Voices, One Song’: Amerindian Heritage month 2024 launched with cultural extravaganza
WHEN the calendar turned to September, the rich tapestry of indigenous cultures in Guyana was brought to life to celebrate the launching of Amerindian Heritage Month.
A lively and colourful launch ceremony that celebrated this yearly festival, was held at the Umana Yana in the capital city of Georgetown at the end of August. It showcased the uniqueness of the indigenous peoples as well as their contributions to the history and development of the country.
This year’s theme is, “Many Voices, One Song. Celebrating Amerindian Heritage 2024.” The Heritage Village of 2024 is Campbelltown, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).
The launch event was a feast for the eyes and ears. Attendees were greeted by rhythmic sounds and the
sight of indigenous peoples dressed in traditional attire.
The air was thick with the scent of cassava bread, fish tuma pot and other indigenous delicacies, offering a sensory preview of the cultural richness that the monthlong celebration promises.
Traditional dances, songs, and storytelling took centre stage, with performers from various Amerindian communities showcasing their unique cultural expressions.
People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Member of Parliament (MP), Alister Charlie, officially launched the celebrations and spoke passionately about the significance of this month.
“Today, we stand united as one nation to honour the legacy and achievements of a people who have played a foundational role in shaping our country’s identity.”
Reflecting on the month’s
historical context, he said that it was the late former President, Dr Cheddi Jagan, who, in 1995, made the landmark decision to designate September as Amerindian heritage month.
“This decision was not a mere act of recognition, but a profound statement of intent, a commitment to ensuring that the contributions, culture and history of our Amerindian communities are celebrated and preserved for generations to come,” he stated.
According to the PPP/C parliamentarian, this recognition was a critical step in addressing the historical marginalisation of Amerindian peoples and in laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and equitable future.
He further emphasised that Amerindian Heritage Month serves as a “beacon of our commitment to the justice, equity and recognition of the unique cultural heritage that our Amerindian communities bring to our national identity.”
Charlie said that the theme for this year’s Amerindian Heritage Month is particularly fitting, as it encapsulates the essence of what the government seeks to achieve.
He alluded to the significant progress made in Amerindian communities under the PPP/C government,
highlighting advancements in health, education, infrastructure, the strengthening of the Amerindian Act and more.
These improvements, according to him, have enhanced the quality of life, ensuring better access to essential services, educational opportunities, modern infrastructure, thereby fostering greater development and well-being in indigenous villages.
Sonia Latchman, Vice-Chairperson of the National Toshao Council and Toshao of Bethany Village, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) noted the significance of Amerindian Heritage Month, stressing the importance of honouring the rich and diverse cultures of indigenous peoples.
“This month is a powerful reminder of who we are, where we came from, and the path we are forging for our future generations. It is a time to pay tribute to our ancestors, who, through their wisdom and resilience, preserve the traditions, languages and our values that define us today.”
She, too, acknowledged the progress made by indigenous peoples while also recognising ongoing challenges. “But despite those challenges, we the Amerindians, have made significant progress in our villages, communities, satellites and CDCs
(Community Development Councils). We have made significant contribution to the education sector, the health sector and other sectors, and we have had many community developments,” said Toshao Latchman.
Charlie and Latchman both urged their fellow Amerindian brothers and sisters to keep fighting for policies that uphold their rights and encourage sustainable growth, with the former emphasising the necessity for astute leadership in order to develop their communities.
“Astute leadership is not simply about holding positions of power. It is about guiding our communities with wisdom, vision and a deep commitment to the well-being of our people. It is about making decisions that are informed, inclusive and focused on long-term sustainability…”
Heritage celebrations began on September 1 at the National Park in Georgetown. Other events included pageantry, poetry, jingle and talent competitions, educational lectures, interfaith service, fitness walk, culture nights. The Monthlong celebration concluded with its annual sport activities and the crowning of a new Miss Amerindian Heritage Queen on Monday evening.
Reflecting on the life of Stephen Campbell
-– paving the way for the
By Naomi Parris
IF one were to ask: Why was September selected for the recognition of Indigenous Heritage Month, very few might be able to respond competently.
The answer to that question can be summed up in the name of one man, Stephen Campbell.
indigenous leaders of today
On December 26, 1897, in Santa Rosa, Moruca, British Guiana, Maria Dos Santos and her husband, Tiburtio Campbell welcomed their baby boy, Stephen Esterban Campbell, who, little did they know, would one day become a legend and hero for many Amerindians and Guyanese. Unfortunately, neither of his parents lived to see him become a living legend. Following the death of his parents, Campbell, who, belonged to the Arawak Tribe, was raised by his grandmother. He attended the Catholic Santa Rosa Primary School. There is not much in-
Continued on page 8A
Stephen Esterban Campbell
Stephen Esterban Campbell, MP, presenting the Amerindian Land Rights Petition to the British Secretary of State, Duncan Sandys, in London, England
Stephen Campbell with a petition presented at the London Constitutional Conference
Annual Pageant brings curtains down on Heritage festivities
— Miss Region Nine crowned this year’s queen
BRINGING the curtain down on Amerindian Heritage Month 2024, the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs hosted the vibrant, and highly anticipated Miss Amerindian Heritage Pageant on Monday evening, at the National Cultural Centre, Georgetown.
This year, 10 brilliant young women from Indige-
nous communities and villages across Guyana, contended for the crown and title of Miss Amerindian Heritage 2024. Each representative emerged as winners from regional pageants and were selected to represent that region on the national stage. The Miss Amerindian Heritage pageant serves as a platform for the empower-
ment of young Amerindian women across Guyana.
These women were: Region One: Arinna Williams; Region Two: Jennel Henry; Region Three: Natasha Neblett; Region Four: O’statia Simon; Region Five: Marcelina Budburgh; Region Six: Shania Peneux; Region Seven: Sylvany Robertson; Region Eight: Sandra Edwards; Re-
gion Nine: Noreen Alfred; and Region 10: Andrena Stoby.
The delegates were awarded points based on their continued performance throughout the pageant and the scores from the final segment were added to the scores of other segments throughout that evening.
After many great performances by each delegate, and
minutes of tallying scores, the panel of judges selected Noreen Alfred, of Region Nine, as Queen of Miss Amerindian Heritage 2024.
Noreen is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Project Management and Engineering. The young woman has a passion for youth empowerment; this explains her platform: preserving Indig -
enous culture and traditions and youth empowerment. The first runner-up was Region One’s Arinna Williams, while the second runner-up was Region Eight’s Sandra Edwards. Coming in third was Sylvany Robertson of Region Seven. Region 10’s Andrena Stoby was fourth runner-up. (Faith Greene)
Miss Amerindian Heritage Queen 2024, Noreen Alfred (NCN photos)
Reflecting on the life of Stephen...
formation about him in his teenage years, nevertheless, he was described as a man who never limited his abilities to naysayers, which led him to become the first Indigenous politician to become a member of the British Guiana Legislative Council that is now called Parliament.
He entered the Council on September 10, 1957; hence, September was chosen to honour the national contribution of Indigenous Guyanese.
HE DID IT ALL
Campbell was the holder of many professional
caps. He was a teacher at various villages and settlements, from the Pomeroon to the Rupununi. According to research, his teaching career allowed him to interact with persons of various cultures and beliefs. He worked in bauxite mines and he did farming. His work with common labourers and the difficulties he endured certainly shaped his views and influenced his activism for education for Indigenous Peoples.
Campbell was at the age of 60 when he entered party politics, joining a party called the National Labour Front (NLF). He was particularly passionate
in his fight for equal opportunities for Indigenous Peoples during his tenure as a politician.
AN ADVOCATE FOR HIS PEOPLE
A strong believer in empowerment and self-sufficiency, Campbell fought vigorously during his parliamentary days for educational opportunities and land rights for indigenous communities.
During the colonial days, the then-rulers allowed Amerindians to live their life in ‘reservations’, according to their traditions and practices, subject to certain limitations.
However, Amerindi -
ans at that time had no formal title of ownership or established legal rights to the lands which they used or where they lived, which saw fear arising when there were talks of then- British Guiana becoming an Independent country.
The people feared that after the country gained Independence, whatever rights they enjoyed would have been trampled upon and ignored and the lands on which they lived and built their families on for thousands of years would have been expropriated.
In 1962, Campbell travelled to London to present a petition and lob-
by the British government for recognition of Amerindian land rights. On that first visit to London, Campbell took with him a petition which was written on a long scroll and signed by dozens of Indigenous leaders of the day. He presented it to the British Secretary of State, Duncan Sandys, in London, after having a private, one-hour meeting with him.
Sadly, on May 12, 1966, two weeks before British Guiana gained Independence, Campbell passed away while he was receiving treatment in Canada where he was later laid to rest.
However, the works
that he did during his last days made sure that when Guyana attained its Independence on May 26, 1966, Indigenous Peoples had legal ownership of land and rights of occupancy and these were embodied in the Independence provisions.
Yearly, Campbell’s work is honoured during heritage celebrations. A night of reflection and forum is held to commemorate the indigenous leader’s contribution not only to the indigenous communities but all of Guyana.
(This story was first published in 2020, it was updated and written by Naomi Parris)
Bringing culture closer
— Amerindian Art Exhibition 2024 seeking to celebrate and showcase
A VIBRANT blend of creativity and culture takes centre stage once again at this year’s Art Exhibition, celebrating Amerindian Heritage Month. Over a dozen artists and sculptors have their work on display at Castellani House throughout September. The annual collaboration between the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs and Castellani House showcases some of Guyana’s finest creatives from all corners of the country.
From traditional garments to breathtaking sculptures and paintings that offer a glimpse into indigenous traditions, this year’s exhibition has received a great reception from the public, with several pieces already sold. Pekahiah James, the curator of the event for the second time, said the mission remains consistent: to provide Guyanese
artists with a platform and offer visitors an opportunity to experience their creative expressions of Indigenous culture, ultimately bringing people closer to that heritage.
Pekahiah elaborated, “The exhibition focuses on the heritage and culture of the indigenous people of Guyana, encompassing all nine nations.”
Inclusion is a defining theme this year, with more artists participating than in previous years. Unlike past exhibitions, more crafters and their works were included. By featuring fewer pieces from a larger number of crafters, the exhibition allows for broader exposure. Pekahiah explained, “We’ve reached out to craftspersons and asked them to submit their best work. Instead of having entire collections, we’ve limited it to about one to three pieces each.”
She further added, “For this particular year, we had to reach out to the artists to see what sort of works they had available, whether or not it fit the theme, and then select works based on that.”
The exhibition, held under the theme “Many Voices, One Song,” embodies the celebration of unity in diversity. Pekahiah shared her interpretation: “The idea of ‘Many Voices, One Song’ reflects how we can gather so many perfect examples of Indigenous heritage, traditions, and cultures and combine them into this beautiful presentation.”
She further added that the exhibition serves as a bridge connecting Guyanese across the country, allowing those in the capital to experience a slice of life from the Rupununi or Pomeroon. “Unless you’re willing to make that trip to Indigenous villages
or go out of your way to be involved in Indigenous activities, it’s not something you can experience on a day-today basis,” Pekahiah noted.
The exhibition showcases diversity through pieces made from different mediums, each with its own meaning, representation, and interpretation. One standout piece, a favourite of Pekahiah’s, is “The rain stick” by McKernan Albert. This interactive installation has captivated most visitors. “It’s suspended from the ceiling, and you can tilt it left or right to hear the sound it makes. I had the time of my life with it,” Pekahiah enthused.
As a successful visual artist in her own right, Pekahiah emphasises the importance of public support. The response this year has been particularly encouraging, with more people reaching out to support the exhibit. “People appre-
ciate that we’ve limited the number of crafts this year. They can clearly see the focus is on craftsmanship, which is exactly what we intended to highlight,” she shared.
The annual event has garnered interest from various artists, both veterans and newcomers. While new artists see it as a way to gain exposure, there are those whose work is featured yearly. Pekahiah explained, “For Indigenous artists who might not have access to a platform, this annual exhibition gives them something to prepare for, to showcase their traditions, culture, and pride.”
The inspiring exhibit is also a personal venture for Pekahiah. Having graduated from the University of Guyana with a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts two years ago, she sees this as the next step in her already vibrant career.
“I felt the administrative side of the art field is where I could probably do the most and help the most. I’m still learning as a curator,” she admitted.
The “Many Voices, One Song” theme resonates throughout the exhibition, highlighting the unity within diversity that characterises Guyana’s indigenous peoples. For Pekahiah and the artists involved, this exhibition is more than just a display of art – it’s a bridge between past and present, a dialogue between cultures, and a celebration of identity. As the month of September progresses, the hope is that each visitor will leave with a greater understanding and appreciation of Amerindian heritage, carrying with them a piece of this rich cultural tapestry.
A few of the paintings and hand-crafted pieces featured at this year’s exhibition (Delano Williams photos)
Dedication to healing and heritage
Dr. Stephon Henry has come a long way from his humble beginning in a small community in the Rupununi. A general practitioner turned psychiatrist, he hails from one of the few remaining Macusi-speaking villages in the region.
Despite the distance and decades that separate him from his roots, Dr. Henry proudly embraces his heritage, which remains a vital part of his identity. Now a champion for mental health care accessibility, he is committed to ensuring that treatment reaches not only central Georgetown, but also the remote communities such as the one he calls home.
Born and raised in the south-central area of the Rupununi, a young Dr Henry was ambitious. With a drive and passion for education, he took his educational endeavours very seriously, wanting to work in healthcare from the time he was a boy. This drive for excellence may have been generational as well, with a few of his other siblings making the move to study in Georgetown before he did. Recounting the memorable parts of his childhood, Dr Henry shared that traditional food was a big part of his home and who he is today. “Where I grew up is the only Macusi-speaking village in South-Central. In terms of our culture, it’s pretty similar to other villages. Even now, I can’t do without farine or cassava bread—it has to be there at some point. The Brazilian music also had a
lot of influence in my house.” He said.
After his secondary education, Dr Henry was sure that he wanted to follow along the path of healthcare, but he was not sure how he would get there. That was until the chance to become a doctor came along. As he said, it was an opportunity he just could not give up.” I finished school, and then the opportunity to become a doctor came up, and I couldn’t let that slide because it was one of my dreams as a kid. I applied and got through to go to Cuba. I spent seven years there and graduated as a general doctor in 2013,” he stated.
Dr Henry worked as a general practitioner for a year, moving through various hospitals and clinics around the country. Although a great experience, he sought to have a speciality and wanted to move into a field that would allow him to help people uniquely. He wanted to champion the importance of the often-overlooked and stigmatised issue of mental health. Initially, he gained some pushback about choosing psychiatry, but he persevered regardless and soon gained his Master’s in the field he was so passionate about. “After working for a year and doing various rotations, I decided I couldn’t be a general doctor for long. I chose psychiatry. A lot of people told me I shouldn’t do it, but I felt it was something I could make a difference in. I started the Master’s in Psy-
chiatry programme in 2016 and passed in 2019. Since then, I’ve been working with the TPSU, doing satellite clinics all over Guyana,” he said.
But, Dr Henry’s journey to success was marked by
quite a few challenges. One of these has been tackling the constant misconception that is being thrown at him as a young Indigenous doctor. A champion for Indigenous people in his own right, Dr Henry is dispelling and disproving harmful stereotypes.
The only way he knows how is by being living proof of the success of his people. “One of the things I grew up with is that people think we are from the bush. But we have Indigenous lawyers, doctors, nurses, and policemen. We are everywhere now. It shows
that if we are given the opportunity, we can make it far. And we are making it far,” he said.
Dr Henry has made it so far that he often returns to his community. Looking at the healthcare aspect of Guyanese communities, Dr Henry shares that there are many mental health challenges present in communities nationwide, not just in the populated, well-known areas.
“There are a lot of mental health issues in the community—depression, anxiety, psychotic illnesses. Not everyone with a mental health illness is crazy. If you come to seek help for a mental illness, it doesn’t mean you’re crazy. We at the TPSU are always willing to help, and we encourage people to reach out for assistance.” He said.
As Guyana celebrated yet another Indigenous Heritage Month, Dr Henry sees this month as a significant step in connecting cultures and an opportunity to do more than just observe. But it is a chance for Guyanese to support and learn from each other and gain just a little bit more appreciation for one another. “This month is very important. It’s a time to bring everybody together and showcase our talents and culture. We share it with our fellow Guyanese so they can learn to appreciate it more. That’s what this month is about—celebrating and appreciating our heritage,” said Dr Henry.
(Shaniya Harding)
Dr Stephon Henry (Samuel Maughn photo)
Waiakabra A community celebrating unity
WAIAKABRA comes from an Amerindian word which means ‘getting together.’ Whether by accident or design, this completely and perfectly captures the essence of the community. A beautiful tapestry of people and cultures, Waiakabra is home to a diverse mix of residents, all with unique beginnings and stories. A few of the community’s women sat down to talk about motherhood, community development, and what they love about their home.
Becoming a part of Waiakabra.
Coming from Santa Mission on the banks of the Demerara River, Roxanne Defraits is one of Waiakabra’s first residents, living in the community for more than thirty years. Her move was a sacrifice made for her children. After having an
impressive twelve children in Santa Mission, Roxanne left the riverine community so that her eldest daughter could pursue an education. As she explained, “I grew up in Santa Mission, had my children there and everything. But I left because my eldest daughter wanted to study nursing.”
However, the family faced challenges upon moving to the community. As Roxanne explained, life in the village was not that different from Santa Mission at first. Some 20 years later, she began to see subtle changes and then big changes in the community. She recalls, “When we first came here, it was just trees. We had no light or water. Twenty years after, I started to see things happen; we got light and then water.” Although there were challenges, Roxanne said she stayed because of her family.
“I have seen a lot of development in the thirty years I have been here. Some people come and go, and some have the faith to hold on.”
Roxanne has become a significant part of Waiakabra. Now in its fourth year, Waiakabra’s heritage celebration continues to garner great support, with women like Roxanne at the forefront.
As she explained, heritage has always been a vital part of the community. This year is no different, and Roxanne plans to be part of the festivities with her signature food and drinks, leaving her mark on the heritage and the community.
Community development and creativity.
A newcomer to the community, Aliyah Kellman was born in the village of Rockstone. However, most of her childhood and schooling
took place in Waiakabra. The community made for a wonderful childhood, said Aliyah, exploring the vast area with its blackwater creek and neighbouring fruit trees. As she stated, “My early days in Waiakabra were nice. My friends and I would go to play at the creek and all over. The village did not have all these houses and people.”
In recent years, however, the population has been on a constant rise. With more people seeking jobs, opportunities, and chances, Waiakabra has seen an increase in its population. With the introduction of multiple developmental projects and others in the pipeline, people continue to come to Waiakabra.
The village has also begun emphasising the development of creativity among its people. This creativity
Continued on page 13A
Roxanne Defraits
Waiakabra
comes on full display during the exciting heritage celebrations. Home to vibrant dancers and skilled basket weavers, the community’s true artistic nature shines when this mix of people showcases their talent in September. As Aliyah shared, “Heritage is a nice time in the community; people come out, and we have dancers who perform and tell stories.”
Waiakabra’s heritage celebration.
There are quite a few things that led twenty-oneyear-old Melissa Persaud to Waiakabra, a far way from home for the young mother who was born and raised in Region Three. As she explained, “I recently came here to live. I am from La Grange, Independence Street, in the West Bank of Demerara.” She shared that her family came to the community because of her mother, who is from the region. As she stated, “We, my family, came here because my mother is from this side. I came here and finished school.”
After falling in love with the community, Melissa decided to start a family of her own and settled down in
Waiakabra. She explained that there were challenges in the beginning, but over the last few years, the quality of life in Waiakabra has changed for the better. As she stated, “At first, it was a bit hard, doing without some things. But there have been changes and improvements. The village just needs one or two things, like street lights. But other than that, Waiakabra is a nice place to live.”
Waiakabra’s heritage celebration and activities are special to Melissa. Normally occurring around her birthday, Melissa takes the day to connect with the community and herself. Most times, she would find herself sampling the top dishes and drinks present at the event, with cassava bread, pepperpot, and “piwari” being the front runners.
Waiakabra is a community that has managed to not only create a people-centred environment but has kept it that way. The village continues to develop as more people learn about this hidden gem.
As a month of celebrating Guyana’s people takes off, Waiakabra teaches us that it is important to celebrate as one.
(Shaniya Harding)
Savannah Tours introduces Heritage Day Rides
IN celebration of Heritage Month 2024, Savannah Tours is offering patrons an opportunity to join them for a thrilling experience through the trails, for what promises to be an unforgettable adventure.
The Heritage Day Rides were from Savannah Tours’ headquarters in Yarrowkabra to Laluni on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway where tourists can take part in a 20-mile trail ride. Shane D’Andrade, the company’s tour operator, recently told this publication that they intend on visiting various villages, and spending some time there to see the cultural shows and take part in other Heritage Month activities.
The tour led patrons and tourist through several Amerindian Villages. Banakari, Moraikobai and Pakuri villages were among the destinations visited during last month’s adevntures.
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