The Village was founded over 70 years ago by Mr. Ambrose. He was the first Toshao and the Village was named after him – Ambrose. After he died, the 2nd Toshao renamed Ambrose to Potarinau in the late 1970s. Potarinau is situated at the west bank of Sawariwau Creek. the native language of the people of Potarinau is Wapichan. The village has a nursery school, primary school, multipurpose building and health post.

COMMUNITY PROFILE
NamePotarinau
Satellite/s Katuur, Baitoon, Shiriri
Region9
Area of Land5608.73 acres
Titled/UntitledTitled
Name of Current Toshao (2012)Paulinus Albert
Name of Former ToshaoSigfred Albert
Total Number Councillors4
Number of CSO’s15
DEMOGRAPHICS
Total Population 623
Number of households123
1 st LanguageWapichan
2 nd LanguageEnglish
ReligionChristian
Means of communicationRadio Set
Types of transportation Bicycles, Carts, Walking
Nearest Town or Village for marketing linkages Lethem
Seasonal patternsWet and dry
Soil TypeLoam/Clay
Economy
Major economic activitiesFarming
SCHOOL
Name of Nursery SchoolPotarinau Nursery School
Number of Nursery School Students43
Name of Primary School StudentsPotarinau Primary School
Number of Primary School Students268
HEALTH FACILITY
Type of Health FacilityHealth Post
Health Personnel1 Community Health Worker
Malaria Specialist
Source of Water Supply Wells & Rainwater
BUILDINGS
Other Main BuildingsVillage Office
Multipurpose
EQUIPMENT
Other Equipment Generator, Water pump
GROUPS
List of Social Groups and ClubsWomen’s Group, Youth Group, PSSP