About Us – Ministry of Amerindian Affairs

What is the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs?

The Ministry of Amerindian Affairs was established in 2005 under the leadership of former President Bharrat Jagdeo with a clear mission: to safeguard, protect and promote the social, cultural and economic interests of Guyana’s Amerindian peoples and hinterland communities.

Since its establishment, the Ministry has played a leading role in advancing Amerindian rights, expanding opportunities in hinterland regions, and ensuring that Amerindian communities are active participants in Guyana’s national development journey.

In 2006, the revised Amerindian Act was enacted, creating an important legal framework to strengthen and protect the rights of Amerindian villages and communities, including governance, land rights and cultural preservation.

Today, the Ministry continues to work alongside villages, community leaders, government agencies and development partners to improve lives across Guyana’s hinterland through sustainable development, empowerment and inclusion.

What Does the Ministry Do?

The Ministry’s mandate is centered on recognizing and protecting the collective rights and interests of Amerindian villages and communities throughout Guyana.

Working closely with other Ministries, agencies and local leaders, the Ministry develops and supports programmes that improve the quality of life in hinterland regions through:

Education and youth development
Healthcare access and community wellness
Sustainable housing and infrastructure
Land titling and community governance
Agriculture and economic empowerment
Renewable energy and ICT expansion
Environmental protection and climate resilience
Preservation of Amerindian heritage, languages and traditions

Over the years, the Ministry has also supported major initiatives aimed at transforming hinterland communities, including:

Expansion of community development projects through the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS)
Increased access to solar energy and internet connectivity
Support for village economies, eco-tourism and small businesses
Youth leadership and scholarship opportunities
Strengthening village councils and community governance systems
Investment in sports, culture and Amerindian heritage celebrations

These efforts continue to help create stronger, more resilient and self-sufficient communities across Guyana’s hinterland.

Vision

To empower all hinterland peoples and communities to enjoy a higher quality of life, sustainable opportunities and a brighter future for generations to come.

Mission Statement

To enhance the social, economic and environmental well-being of Amerindian peoples and their lands through collaboration, sustainable development, inclusive governance and progressive legislation, while preserving and celebrating Amerindian culture, heritage and traditional knowledge.

Building a Stronger Hinterland Future

As Guyana continues to grow and develop, the Ministry remains committed to ensuring that Amerindian communities are not left behind, but instead remain at the heart of national progress.

Through partnerships, innovation and community-driven development, the Ministry continues to champion a future where Amerindian peoples thrive, cultures are preserved, and every hinterland community has the opportunity to succeed.