The Region Two administration on Friday handed over just over $7 million in grants to Toshaos of several Amerindian communities.
During a simple handing over ceremony, held in the boardroom of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Chairperson Vilma De Silva handed over the presidential grants on behalf of President Irfaan Ali.
The communities that received the grants were: Bethany, Mashabo and Wakapau. Bethany was presented with a $1.5 million grant, while Mashabo received a $1.2 million grant and Wakapau $2 million.
Development grants were also disbursed to Akawini, which received $600,000; St. Monica, which also received $600,000; Mashabo, which received $400,000; and Bethany, which received $754,839.
De Silva reminded that the communities are presented with grants every year to spur development work and to enhance the livelihoods of their members.
De Silva said that she was happy that the toshaos from the various communities took the initiative to come up with the necessary project proposals to qualify for funding for their communities. She urged them to ensure that the projects are done within the specifications and that progress reports are provided.
Lloyd Perreira, Toshao of Wakapoa, said he was happy that his community received the grant. He said the grant would be used to further enhance the community and to provide employment for the locals in the area. He said that his community in the past benefitted from grants and he was happy that the current government decided to continue with the disbursement.
