Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Sarah Browne, has announced major initiatives under Budget 2026 aimed at enhancing support for Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples. Key measures include increased funding for education and the construction of a new Amerindian Hostel.
Enhanced Support for Students
A significant change in the Hinterland Scholarship Programme is set to benefit students pursuing secondary and tertiary education outside their communities. The pocket allowance for students will increase from $4,000 to $10,000, alleviating some of the financial pressures they face. Browne noted that this initiative will help hundreds of students each year, providing not just allowances, but also meals, transportation, and accommodation support, with a total allocation of $133.8 million for this purpose in Budget 2026.
New Amerindian Hostel Construction
Minister Browne also announced an allocation of $500 million for the construction of a new Amerindian Hostel. This decision responds to longstanding issues regarding the condition and capacity of the current hostel, which is situated in an old building that has outgrown its capacity. In 2025, over 12,175 individuals utilized the facility, which serves stranded patients, vulnerable individuals, and those in need of urgent medical care.
“The government is serious about constructing a new hostel,” Browne stated, highlighting the facility’s critical role for Indigenous peoples traveling to Georgetown for education, healthcare, and essential services.
Broader Initiatives for Indigenous Rights and Development
During the Budget Debate, Browne emphasized the ongoing commitment of successive People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) governments to support the rights, livelihoods, and development of Indigenous communities. She referenced various initiatives such as:
- Land titling programmes
- Presidential grants
- Community development projects across hinterland regions
These initiatives underscore the government’s dedication to improving the quality of life and access to resources for Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples, reinforcing the commitment to their development and empowerment within the national framework.
