Minister of Amerindian Affairs Sarah Browne-Shadeek has reiterated that indigenous development is not separate from Guyana’s national development but lies at the heart of the country’s progress.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the National Toshao Council (NTC) Conference 2026 at ACCC in Liliendaal on Friday, Minister Browne-Shadeek highlighted that the annual gathering remains a vital platform for collaboration between the government and toshaos.
She added that the NTC is one of the country’s most significant democratic institutions that drives indigenous governance and empowerment. Thus, the government continues to fulfil its financial commitment to strengthening the council.
As a result, some $1.6 billion has been injected to support the NTC, while approximately $639 million has been invested over the years to ensure the conference is held annually.
The Amerindian affairs minister said the week-long conference had produced meaningful outcomes on several priority issues. These included discussions on healthcare, housing, economic development, sports, refugee interventions and improvements to road networks serving hinterland communities.
Over the past week, you have participated actively, spoken boldly, and engaged constructively. My door remains open, and I will be actively visiting villages during my tenure,” she said while reaffirming the continued partnership between the government and indigenous communities for even greater progress in the years ahead.
She added, “Let this conference always remind us that indigenous development is not separate from national development; it is central to it. You share your success, you raise your concerns, you offer ideas, and together, we will continue building stronger villages, stronger leaders, and a stronger Guyana.”
The minister further explained that the government has equipped village leaders with the resources needed to deliver results through successive national budgets, creating many outstanding stories of development across indigenous communities.
She acknowledged that the decision to proceed with the conference had been difficult as Guyana continues to mourn the victims of the MV Barima tragedy.