The Ministry of Amerindian Affairs will be spending more time working in Amerindian villages and less time in offices as part of a renewed focus on on-the-ground leadership.
Director-General Sonia Latchman said the ministry’s team, led by Minister Sarah Browne-Shadeek, will work closely with communities to implement projects that improve the lives of Indigenous people during President Irfaan Ali’s second term.
She said several outreach trips are already planned to assist villages with economic, social, and infrastructural initiatives. Latchman, who grew up in Bethany and now also serves as Vice Chair of the National Toshaos Council, said her grassroots background drives her inclusive approach to development.
Government has invested heavily in Amerindian communities, including $72 million in Bethany for major projects. This year’s national budget allocated $7.2 billion for Amerindian and hinterland development, covering the Amerindian Development Fund, Presidential Grants, the Community Service Officer programme, and land titling efforts.
Latchman said the ministry remains committed to ensuring that no village or person is left behind as the government continues its drive to expand opportunities and development across the hinterland.
