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The NTC conference
Editorial…
Kaieteur News- The National Toshaos Council Conference opened yesterday with more of the same from President Irfaan Ali and his colleagues.
The forum, which is the highest decision-making forum for the Toshaos has been reduced to a political playing field for the government. It is where leaders of the PPP attack political opponents and NGOs that do not share their views are maligned. Yesterday we witnessed this when President Irfaan Ali launched scathing attacks on businessman, Azruddin Mohamed and the opposition. From the reports were received, some Indigenous representatives of various organisations were barred from attending the opening of the conference and even members of the media were attacked by officials of the NTC.
In anticipation of what transpired yesterday the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) had called on the Government of Guyana to respect the autonomy of the NTC, ensure transparency and inclusion in all discussions, and to act swiftly on the recommendations that emerge from this year’s conference. The association had also urged Toshaos and community representatives to courageously advocate for their people’s rights, needs, and aspirations, noting that the NTC Conference is not just a ceremonial gathering; it is an opportunity to hold the government and state agencies accountable while demanding policies and actions that truly benefit our communities.
The association said Indigenous peoples are not only stakeholders, “we are rights-holders with a deep connection to our lands, cultures, and ways of life. We remind ourselves that there is strength in unity. APA stands in solidarity with all Toshaos and community leaders and remains committed to supporting their efforts to achieve social, climate and economic justice, equality, and sustainable self-determined development for all Indigenous Peoples in Guyana,” the statement concluded.
It is clear that the current trajectory of the National Toshaos Council Conference is not yielding the desired outcomes. It’s high time for a shift in focus from handouts to substantive efforts to uplift indigenous communities and extricate them from the grips of poverty and despondency. This transformation must be aimed at resolving problems that have plagued these communities for generations. Rather than forcing the youth to migrate into gold fields, there should be initiatives aimed at creating sustainable economic opportunities within indigenous communities. This could include support for agricultural ventures, ecotourism, and skill development programmes that empower individuals to thrive in their own villages.
To combat the environmental degradation caused by mining and logging, a commitment to environmental stewardship is vital. The conference should promote discussions on sustainable resource management, reforestation efforts, and responsible mining practices, ensuring the delicate balance between development and preservation.
Addressing the social issues that plague indigenous communities requires a comprehensive approach. The conference should foster open dialogues about alcohol abuse, sexual exploitation, and other social challenges. The National Toshaos Council Conference holds immense potential to reshape the trajectory of Guyana’s indigenous communities. No longer should the conference be a mere spectacle of political enticements, but rather a conduit for transformation. The future of Guyana’s indigenous peoples depends on a collective commitment to change – a change that starts with a fresh perspective on the purpose of the National Toshaos Council Conference, beginning with the removal of the shadow of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs over conference proceedings.
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