As part of its efforts to spearhead upcoming Emancipation activities and celebrations, the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport on Friday distributed grants to a number of African organisations to assist in the preservation and promotion of the rich cultural heritage of Africans, a Department of Public Information (DPI) release stated.
The handing over ceremony took place at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre and was attended by several government officials including Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance and Public Affairs, Dr Ashni Singh; Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Sonia Parag; Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn; and Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy.
Chairman of the Victoria CDC, Alex Fraser, a recipient of the grant over the past several years, emphasised the importance of these funds in educating the public about African history. “The government has done a tremendous job in promoting and supporting these efforts. They have shared resources and knowledge so people can access information.”
Ethnarch of the Kingdom of Descendants of Enslaved and Manumitted Africans, Noah Jahshuarun, highlighted the critical role of the grant in celebrating Emancipation. “Celebrating Emancipation is very important, and it is good that the government has stepped in to give these grants. With the number of groups, we have today, it is spread across the country, and if used correctly, it will help spread the culture.”
And Bonny Alves of Ssignal Studio/Productions utilises the grant to host an annual Emancipation Jazz and Soul Concert, promoting the craft of African artists. “This year, we are having our eleventh Emancipation Jazz and Soul Concert, promoting works and music by African artists. This grant is very significant because, without this support, the event cannot happen”, DPI reported.
Meanwhile, McCoy reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting African Guyanese organisations in their Emancipation activities. “These celebrations are part of the cornerstone of our national identity, commemorating the historic slave trade, the indomitable spirit, and the rich cultural heritage of the African Guyanese community.”
He also addressed attempts by what he referred to as “divisive elements” to monopolise the celebrations, noting, “Such criticisms are not only baseless but also a direct assault on the tireless efforts to preserve our African culture for future generations. Our government has always been, and will continue to be, staunchly supportive of the African community without question.”
He also assured that the administration is committed to inclusive growth, providing essential financial support under the $100 million designated to advance Afro-Guyanese causes as part of the United Nations Decade of People of African descent.
The minister urged citizens and the various groups to continue to nurture and celebrate African traditions not only during Emancipation but throughout the year.
