Deino Williams, Toshao of Rockstone Village in Region 10, has publicly endorsed President Irfaan Ali and the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) for a second term in office, praising their visionary leadership and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Indigenous people.
In his endorsement, Williams highlighted the success of the Carbon Credits initiative, which has enabled Amerindian communities to significantly enhance their living standards. “I want to publicly endorse President Irfaan Ali for a second term due to his commitment to the development of the Amerindian people and the carbon credits, the millions that my community has been receiving over the years,” he stated.
Indigenous communities across Guyana have benefited from designated funds derived from carbon credit earnings, receiving more than the promised 15% allocation. In 2023, the first year of fund distribution, a total of US$22.7 million (approximately G$4.75 billion) was allocated to over 200 Indigenous communities, with the figure rising to US$23.27 million the following year.
Williams detailed the positive changes occurring in Rockstone Village, citing improvements in education and infrastructure. “We have seen lots of transformation in terms of scholarships for persons within the village, and we are currently building sanitary blocks for the community. We also see progress on our eco-tourism lodge,” he explained.
Additionally, he noted that carbon credit funds have been used to fully furnish village offices, enhancing governance and community development.
Williams’ endorsement reflects a growing sentiment among Indigenous leaders who assert that the government’s carbon credit program and related initiatives are genuinely improving lives, strengthening communities, and creating new opportunities for Amerindian people throughout Guyana.
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