Amerindian Affairs Minister Pauline Sukhai has delivered a timely and necessary message to the residents of Orealla and Siparuta, along the Corentyne River — a call to action grounded in sustainability, economic foresight, and self-determination. Her appeal to shift focus from social welfare spending to income-generating investments is a directive that is essential for the long-term prosperity and resilience of these indigenous communities.
In a country where rural and hinterland communities in the past often faced systemic neglect and economic marginalisation, it is critical that any available resource be utilised with strategic intent. The minister’s advice to local leaders: to prioritise sustainable development projects over temporary welfare support, should be viewed as a roadmap towards autonomy, financial stability, and community-driven growth. Investments that yield long-term economic benefits would not only ensure continuity of essential services, but would also empower these villages to chart their own development paths.
While infrastructure development remains vital, it must not occur in a vacuum. Sukhai’s recommendation that such projects be conceptualised with revenue generation in mind is both practical and visionary. The example of building a multipurpose hall, not just for communal use, but as a potential income-earning asset, encapsulates the type of innovative thinking required. Whether rented out for events, workshops, or training sessions, such facilities can generate consistent revenue streams while serving community needs.
The emerging success of Orealla’s sand mining enterprise serves as a tangible example of the benefits of economic diversification. This localised industry supports employment, fosters entrepreneurship, and injects capital into the village economy. It is precisely these types of ventures —grounded in natural resources, cultural identity, or geographic advantage — that hold the potential to reshape the economic landscape of indigenous communities.
However, sustainable development is more than revenue generation; it also demands transparent governance. The minister’s reminder of the importance of adhering to the Amerindian Act reinforces the need for accountability in the management of community funds and resources. The Act remains a critical legal framework for ensuring that development is participatory, equitable, and community-driven. Effective governance must be the cornerstone of every project undertaken.
Equally significant is Sukhai’s call for inclusive development. The role of youths and women in village economies cannot be overlooked. Creating spaces for youths in decision-making processes ensures continuity of leadership and infusion of new ideas. Simultaneously, enabling women to access carbon credit funding and participate in economic ventures not only supports gender equality, but also maximises the community’s full human potential.
The residents’ expressed needs — ranging from a water filtration system and solar energy expansion to vital transportation infrastructure — highlight the urgency of coordinated planning. These are not mere conveniences; they are foundational to health, mobility, energy resilience and, ultimately, economic productivity. The development of a concrete road and bridges between Orealla and Siparuta, for instance, would facilitate trade, enhance access to services, and reduce isolation.
The Government’s continued commitment to supporting hinterland and riverine communities must be matched by proactive and strategic leadership within the villages themselves. The success of national policy depends heavily on local execution. Community leaders must be equipped with the tools, knowledge, and vision to convert funding into impact — whether through agriculture, tourism, renewable energy, or value-added resource extraction.
The shift from welfare reliance to investment-oriented governance would not happen overnight; it requires cultural adaptation, administrative capacity-building, and the confidence to innovate. But, if embraced earnestly, this transformation holds the promise of lifting entire communities into an era of self-sustaining prosperity.
Sukhai’s message should serve as a national cue: social support is essential, but it cannot substitute for sustainable development. The future of Amerindian communities lies not in dependency, but in empowered, economically resilient villages that lead their own development journeys. The opportunity now exists to move boldly in that direction.
