The Makushi Research Unit MRU from region nine has left an indelible mark when they unveiled a unique Indigenous line.

The project dubbed the Rupununi Essence Luxury Facial Cleanser was birthed through a partnership between three entities the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, the Institute of Applied Science and Technology IAST and the MRU.

Vice President and Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs in congratulating the MRU on its achievement said that “hadn’t it been for the team that is why it means so much to the government to bring people together to find their strengths and here we are today in the first step for the Makushi Researchers and we are looking forward and hoping that others will follow probably in other areas.”

The Minister noted that “you have demonstrated the will to stay close to your culture and heritage, you have therefore helped with the preservation, growth and development of your culture, customs and practices.”

Meanwhile, IAST Director Professor Suresh Narine and team that played a pivotal role in seeing this venture to fruition said “for too long we have ignored this amazing patrimony, the gift of knowledge from our indigenous peoples. We like to say that it is “knew” knowledge because they have known this for millennia.”

Salutations were forthcoming for Ms. Radzik, Dr. Paloma Mohamed, Dr. Marie Correia, Mrs. Annette Arjoon-Martins and Mr. Dave Martins for their stanch commitments to this unique line.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Ms. Valeria Garrido-Lowe, Minister of Business, Mr. Dominic Gaskin, Minister of Citizenship, Mr. Winston Felix, Minister of Social Cohesion, Ms. Amna Ally Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr. Barton Scotland and Dr. Patrick Chesney of the United Nations Development Programme.

Cultural performances were made by indigenous groups from Rupertee and Suruma, local band Circle of Love with accompaniment also coming from the Police Steel Orchestra Band.