National Toshaos Conference gets underway today at ACCC

Toshaos and other Indigenous leaders from 210 villages across the country will congregate at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown for the National Toshaos Council’s (NTC) Conference which gets underway today.
This year approximately $100 million from the national budget has been set aside for the NTC Conference which provides a forum for village leaders from all across the country to engage the President and government ministers and expand development acute to Amerindians.

The conference also gives Indigenous leaders a platform to raise concerns and challenges affecting them.
However, the Amerindian People’s Association (APA) welcomes the leader to the conference while highlighting that it is critical for Indigenous Peoples as their communities are witnessing rapid changes that require them to be truly part of the decision-making process.
“The APA is aware that the National Toshaos Conference is a critical national platform for our leaders to collectively reflect on the progress and the challenges facing their communities as we continue to advocate for the advancement of Indigenous rights and wellbeing.”
The APA further stated that Toshaos are entrusted with the responsibility of speaking on behalf of their people, and this conference must provide a conducive space for that purpose.
“The APA underscores the importance of ensuring that Indigenous leaders can freely express their views, concerns, and solutions regarding the complex issues of their communities – whether related to land rights, environmental threats, or the provision of essential services such as education, healthcare and have the ability to do so in the language that they are most comfortable with.”
“We are at a pivotal time in Guyana’s ongoing struggle for Indigenous Peoples’ rights. Therefore, we must ensure that this Conference is led by Indigenous Peoples, guided by our priorities and concerns, and not restricted by anyone’s agendas but the communities. While collaboration is vital, it is equally important that this conference remains a space where Indigenous leaders can advocate for their people and their communities without undue influence,” the APA stated.
Meanwhile, the body also encourages respect for the autonomy and self-determination of Indigenous leadership and supports meaningful dialogue rooted in Indigenous peoples’ voices and lived experiences.
“Let this conference be a true reflection of the unity, resilience, and strength of our communities. We look forward to fruitful discussions, collaborative efforts, and, most importantly, the amplification of the voices of our Toshaos and Indigenous Peoples.”