May 17, 2025
For Immediate Release
The Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) acknowledges the presence of Indigenous leaders from across Guyana in Georgetown for the annual National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference. This vital gathering of village leaders presents a critical opportunity for genuine dialogue, unity, and collective decision-making on the most pressing issues affecting Indigenous communities.
The APA recognises the importance of the NTC conference as a national platform for Indigenous voices to be heard and for Indigenous rights to be advanced.
In light of the rapid changes in our communities and at a time when our communities continue to face a range of challenges, including land tenure insecurity, threats from illegal mining and logging, limited access to quality education and healthcare, and exclusion from key national decision-making processes, it is essential that this forum be used to push for meaningful and transformative outcomes.
The APA urges all Toshaos and community representatives to courageously advocate for their people’s rights, needs, and aspirations. The NTC Conference is not just a ceremonial gathering; it is an opportunity to hold the government and state agencies accountable while demanding policies and actions that truly benefit our communities.
The APA also calls on the Government of Guyana to respect the autonomy of the NTC, ensure transparency and inclusion in all discussions, and to act swiftly on the recommendations that emerge from this year’s conference.
Indigenous peoples are not only stakeholders, we are rights-holders with a deep connection to our lands, cultures, and ways of life.
We remind ourselves that there is strength in unity. APA stands in solidarity with all Toshaos and community leaders and remains committed to supporting their efforts to achieve social, climate and economic justice, equality, and sustainable self-determined development for all Indigenous Peoples in Guyana.