Security and access to sustainable energy took center stage as Indigenous leaders from across Guyana gathered for the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference this week. Toshaos voiced urgent concerns about rising security threats in their communities and renewed appeals for government support in expanding solar power infrastructure.
Security Concerns and Government Response
Amid heightened border tensions, particularly with Venezuela, security was a dominant theme. President Irfaan Ali announced the approval of over 250 firearm licenses for Amerindian and hinterland communities, following direct requests from village leaders. These licenses, primarily for shotguns, are intended to help protect crops and livestock and bolster self-defense in remote areas. President Ali commended the resilience of Indigenous residents living near the border and pledged the government’s full support for their safety.
Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn further outlined plans to strengthen security infrastructure, including the construction of new police stations in key hinterland locations such as Kato and Paramakatoi. Benn also announced the imminent launch of a Community Cadet Corps for youths aged 14 to 23, designed to train and advise participants on security issues and foster greater discipline and ambition among young people. Additionally, the government is expanding community policing groups and providing emergency response equipment to remote regions.
Benn urged Indigenous leaders to use newly issued firearms responsibly and warned that licenses would be revoked if weapons were misused. He also stressed the importance of environmental stewardship, cautioning against overhunting and the need to protect Guyana’s wildlife.
Appeals for Solar Power Expansion
Toshaos also pressed for more government investment in solar energy, highlighting the need for reliable and clean electricity to power homes, schools, and economic activities. In response, Prime Minister Mark Phillips announced an $885 million investment to retrofit 21 Amerindian villages with solar photovoltaic systems and battery storage. This initiative is expected to benefit approximately 12,700 residents across Regions 1, 2, 4, 7, and 9.
The Prime Minister assured leaders that the Guyana Energy Agency will conduct site assessments in response to calls for additional solar farms. While not all requests can be immediately fulfilled, the government is also rolling out household solar systems to various communities as part of its broader strategy to bridge the energy divide in remote areas.
Broader Development Commitments
The conference also saw renewed commitments to address land titling, improve law enforcement empathy, and ensure Indigenous voices are central in national decision-making. Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukai reaffirmed the government’s ongoing engagement with Indigenous communities on land rights and sustainable development strategies.
As the NTC Conference continues, security and energy remain top priorities for Indigenous leaders, who are calling for sustained government action to ensure the safety, empowerment, and sustainable development of Guyana’s hinterland communities.
