It is essential to listen to grassroots voices

May 14, 2025 Letters

Dear Editor

Indigenous communities across Guyana are rapidly transforming and advancing, demonstrating that we are not being left behind. Kudos to the current administration for its commendable efforts. Progress must continue as Amerindians strive for a dignified life and upward mobility in our beautiful and blessed country.

These significant developments occurring in the interior must be commended, and it’s important to recognise that a government cannot address all issues on its own, but we are seeing improvements across various sectors. Nonetheless, more work is needed in areas such as road infrastructure, salaries, cultural preservation, humanitarian efforts, social services, and banking in our communities.

In light of this, it is essential to listen to grassroots voices, such as village Toshaos, councillors, and residents, to understand their challenges and recommendations. This collaborative approach can help the government effectively address these issues and facilitate holistic progress. Therefore, I would like to present the following recommendations for Toshaos to bring forward at the upcoming National Toshaos Council (NTC):

Salaries for Toshaos and councillors: In villages with large populations, like Santa Rosa village councils and other growing communities, they should receive a monthly salary. The Toshaos and team often dedicate significant time to managing village affairs and burning issues like domestic violence and family matters without compensation, which negatively impact their families. This reality inevitably contrasts with the traditional communal pratice that Amerindian communities once embodied. Perhaps authorities can utilise the Oil and Carbon funds to support these community leaders.
Implementation of Cash Grants: During the National Toshaos Council meeting, Indigenous leaders should advocate for the establishment of a law ensuring that all citizens can benefit from the oil revenues in Guyana through cash grants of One Million Guyana dollars every six months.
Online Banking Services: The state provides internet service in all Indigenous communities, contributing positively to education, communication, and access to modern technology. Therefore, I recommend that the Toshaos advocate for the introduction of online banking for residents in these areas. This could alleviate travel expenses for disbursing cash grants and enhance convenience for the local population. I hope that soon the entire country can be fully digitalized, aligning with global standards.
Holistic Development: Modern development should not only focus on infrastructure and material upliftment but also promote humanitarian and social awareness for the overall well-being of the community. Community leaders must allocate funds to address social issues by forming men’s and women’s groups to foster awareness and education. Additionally, funds should be reserved for humanitarian assistance to support shut-ins, elders, and vulnerable individuals in the communities. By implementing these recommendations, we can continue to foster progress and holistic development within Indigenous communities across Guyana.

Yours sincerely,

Medino Abraham

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