Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier (Retired) Mark Phillips says the installation of solar systems in Amerindian villages has transformed life in the hinterland, noting that “years ago… the villages were in darkness,” but today, every household has some form of lighting – a development he described as a source of national pride.
He made this statement when he joined the staff of the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) and its agencies for a recent special cultural celebration in observance of Amerindian Heritage Month.
In his remarks, PM Phillips reminded of the Government’s commitment to the integration and development of Guyana’s indigenous peoples. He pointed to several transformative changes across hinterland communities, including the expansion of energy access, health services, education and connectivity.
“All listed Amerindian villages are now connected to the internet. They are integrated into what is happening in Guyana.” He also highlighted the installation of community solar systems and household solar units that have brought reliable electricity to villages, noting, “Years ago, if you took a photograph at 6:30 pm, the villages were in darkness. Today, every household has some form of lighting, and that is a source of pride for us all.”
Amerindian communities have received over 30,000 solar home systems and have access to telemedicine services in 87 remote communities, providing better healthcare support. The Government plans to build new hospitals in every region, including the hinterland, and has made progress in training indigenous professionals such as teachers, doctors and engineers.
“We have effectively transformed not only the coastline but also the hinterland, with our Amerindian brothers and sisters fully integrated. This is because of our people-centred policies, which guarantee that whether you live on the coastline or the hinterland, you must benefit from national development,” the PM stated.
Meanwhile, Minister within the OPM, Kwame McCoy, also spoke at the gathering. He reflected on the historical and cultural significance of the observance. The Minister mentioned that Amerindian Heritage Month, which was first declared in 1995, serves as a deliberate recognition of the invaluable contributions of Guyana’s Indigenous people to the nation’s life. “Our Amerindian brothers and sisters truly have something to celebrate,” he added: “We have witnessed transformative changes in ICT (Information and Communication Technology) infrastructure, housing, schools, health centres and telemedicine across the hinterland. These are tangible results of empowerment and integration.”
The Minister emphasised the importance of unity and mutual respect across all ethnic groups, reminding them that Guyana’s diversity remains central to the One Guyana vision. Also present at the event was OPM Permanent Secretary Dr Alfred King, as well as several heads of agencies and departments.
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