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Sandvoort, the village established by liberated Africans
The welcome signboard at the Sandvoort Health Centre
Kaieteur News – Like a reserved child secluded from his/her siblings, stands Sandvoort, a village nestled in West Canje Berbice. This village was established by the liberated African slaves not too long after the formal abolition of slavery here in 1834.
A still predominantly Afro-Guyanese village today, Sandvoort is well removed from the ‘bustle and buzz’ of the town of New Amsterdam, and by contrast is a perfect template of country life in many respects.
The sombre portrayal of its gloomy outlook from afar, comes as a natural façade, in that should an outsider or first-time visitor perch atop the elevated ‘Third Bridge’ and gaze from the winding stretch of the fabled ‘Lonely Road’ all the way to the silhouettes of a living area in the short distance, they would regard Sandvoort as lonesome and dispirited. Such is a grave misjudgment, for the little village is anything but dull. Far from it.
Most of the 300 plus residents are tested and proven farmers. Both the young and old, affluent with wisdom in agricultural affairs, interact adeptly with the soil from which they source livelihood. Rice farming is a prominent feature of its farming activities. Outside of agriculture, Sandvoort’s social architecture is bolstered by its retention of many educators (notably young ones), nurses, and young professionals well positioned in Guyana’s acclaimed and much touted oil and gas sector.
An elderly Sandvoort resident engages in her regular chore
Its physical perspective characterizes one entrance into the community, where one main strip of asphalted road divide houses erected on its left and right. Over the last few years, lands have been cleared and developed into pathways which are now concrete roads, and new houses are erecting rapidly, thereby remodeling the village’s outline. Sandvoort also boasts a health centre, a nursery and primary school housed in one building, an Adventist church, snackettes, and guest houses.
Essential modern commodities such as internet access, telephone services, water and electricity are available to many households.
On many Sundays, particularly when the sun seems bent on stamping official authenticity to its day with unrelenting heat, the sweltering condition serves as a rallying pitch to the youths for a refreshing dip in the creek, one of the prized natural offerings of the tucked away community.
Perhaps the most recognizable detail about Sandvoort village is the pull of its African cultural festivities, notably its reputable soiree. Its culture is deeply engrained, and its annual activities in commemoration of Emamcipation Day on August 1 is an attraction for many in and beyond the village, as many visitors swarm the little community to partake.
A canal located in the village of Sandvoort, West Canje Berbice
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