Residents of Lethem and surrounding communities, including Aranaputa, Annai, Kumu and St Ignatius, participated in a Village Day activity last Friday in observance of National Day of Villages.
The event, organised by the Region Nine administration, was aimed at fostering unity among the people in the region. The residents participated in football, cricket, volleyball, table tennis and domino matches, as well as novelty competitions like bun-eating and lime-and-spoon races. There was also an exchange of culture, and a variety of food, drinks, and art and craft items on display and for sale.
At a simple opening ceremony at the Community Ground, Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Minister Sydney Allicock noted the significance of such an event in the development of the communities, the region, and the country. “The Village movement is a very important ingredient for the development of Guyana,” Minister Allicock is quoted by the Department of Public Information as saying.
He urged the residents to recapture that spirit of cooperation which existed among their forefathers. He also advised that they use the event to reflect on their role in the unification of their communities and country.
“Lethem is a new town, and you must play your role in its development. Stop complaining and start contributing. We, as a Government, can’t do it alone, we need your support; let us work together for the development of this region,” Minister Allicock urged.
Meanwhile, Deputy Regional Executive Officer (DREO) Sherwyn Wellington explained that the event also presents a platform for the people to share ideas, identify issues, and develop possible solutions for their respective communities. He said it was in keeping with the Government’s approach to building cohesive communities.
