The United Nations has designated 2011 as the International Year for People of African Descent and the government of Guyana plans to announce a national programme to celebrate the contributions of people of African descent to the country.

According to a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, events and activities aimed at recognising and paying attribute to people of African descent will be announced at a later date through the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.

The release added that government recognises and values the unique contribution that Guyanese of African descent have made to the country’s history and rich multi-ethnic heritage and will use the Year to further promote greater awareness and understanding by all Guyanese of the legacy.

Further, the government will contribute to the fashioning of a harmonious society based on mutual respect and appreciation, the release stated.

The government, meanwhile, says it looks forward to the active collaboration and participation of Guyanese in making the International Year of People of African Descent a success.

International Year of People of African Descent was adopted by consensus on December 18, 2009 under resolution 64/169.

The proclamation was made with the view of strengthening national actions and regional international co-operation for the benefit of people of African descent in relation to their full enjoyment of economic, cultural, social, civil and political rights.

It also seeks to strengthen their participation and integration in all political, economic, social and cultural aspects of society and the promotion of greater knowledge of respect for the diverse heritage and culture of African descent people.