DPI, Guyana, Monday, July 16, 2018

Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido Lowe today urged the incoming National Toshaos Council to be aware of those seeking to sow seeds of discord among the Indigenous People.

Speaking at the opening of the National Toshaos Conference, Minister Garrido-Lowe said the Coalition Administration is a perfect example of unity at the highest level.

She reminded that leadership is not just a position but a process and without the people there would be no leaders. With this in mind, the minister emphasized that leaders must keep the people’s interest as a priority.

The road ahead, Minister Garrido-Lowe noted, is challenging but through strength in unity and the support of the Government these will be overcome.

She emphasised Government’s commitment to improving the lives of the Indigenous Peoples of Guyana by bridging the gap between the Coastland and Hinterland.

Reference was made to the establishment of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) hubs in the Hinterland and five radio stations to keep residents in far-flung communities informed of new developments.

Further, a new project will be rolled out soon which will see the revival and preservation of Indigenous Languages.

This is in keeping with the United Nations designation of 2019 as the year of Indigenous Languages.

The Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs is working assiduously to build a strong and viable support network for vulnerable groups within the Indigenous Communities, particularly women and children.

Minister Garrido-Lowe called on participants to make full use of the conference to devise plans to further enhance their communities.