The PPP/C in its campaign manifesto has promised to upgrade the economic infrastructure in Amerin-dian villages so as to ensure the development of Indigenous peoples and the improvement of their lives.
In the manifesto, which was launched last Saturday, the PPP/C said it is committed to the economic well-being of the Amerindians and their communities. Noting that the government has always been committed to development of the country’s first people for the improvement of their well-being and prosperity, the manifesto said that in its five-year plan, the PPP/C will ensure that village economic transformation is supported so as to “advance village econo-mies into sustainable economic systems.” This will be done through the full implementation of the GRIF-Amerindian Development Fund (ADF), community development and creation of value added products through agriculture, eco-tourism, processing and support for community sustainable projects in the extractive sectors.
The PPP/C said it will also be supporting improvements in economic infrastructure, such as energy and water facilities, and improving and increasing air infrastructure and roads and mobile banking and credit systems, with full emphasis on processing and marketing. A commitment has been made to expanding the processing facilities to increase the production of cashew nuts, peanut butter, farine and cassava byproducts; establishing processing facilities targeting the production of mango and citrus juice; supporting cattle and livestock rearing; providing modern production equipment to support processing initiatives; constructing/reopening airstrips at Parabara, Karisparu, Kaibarupai, Wayaleng, Arau, Para-makatoi and Nappi; and the continuation of road improvement works in North, Central and South Rupununi, Matarkai, Mabaruma and Moruca.
In addition to sorting out land titling issues, a commitment was given for youth development and women empowerment. According to the manifesto, a PPP/C led government will strengthen the Youth Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Programme; support and strengthen sports and youth groups; strengthen capacities of vulnerable groups of Amerindian women through leadership and management workshops, training in processing and manufacturing and information technology and the provision of special credit support for indigenous women and youth entrepreneurs.
The manifesto also spoke of improving primary health care at the village level establishing sub regional diagnostic centres in the hinterland regions and improved educational opportunities.
The PPP/C says too that it will explore and develop the use of renewable energy using natural, environmentally friendly and cheap sources of energy available in villages; complete the Solar Household Units distribution to the hinterland and indigenous communities; provide and increase solar energy capacity to support economic activities and develop solar-powered ICT hubs for access to computers and related training in villages.
