Government has reaffirmed its commitment to Amerindian development with a $7.5 billion investment, targeting eco-tourism, education, agricultural growth, and infrastructure. 

Amerindian Affairs Minister Sarah Browne-Shadeek highlighted ongoing government support, noting that previous investments have already yielded success stories across the hinterland.

Key allocations include $400 million for land titling, $5 billion for livelihood development, $1.9 billion for CSO programme, and $133.8 million to support 800 students under the Hinterland Scholarship Programme.

“There are many success stories of how this has being benefiting us so far we have seen it already happening before in last year’s budget for example the Amerindian development fund, the 15 percent give to us from the LCDS would have had significant success stories in different villages and this year we are set again to benefit from this investment,”

Minister Browne-Shadeek also underscored measures aimed at improving mobility and economic activity.

“And specifically so the measure that highlights they removal of taxes completely from ATV’s, and we know this is a main mode of transportation particularly in the mountains, the ATV’s would normally be used to traverse the rough tarring and having that tax removed is something beneficial and also the taxes on the outboard engines to 150 horse power,” she noted.

Plans are also underway to expand educational facilities, modernise health centers, extend electricity and internet services, and enhance water supply in hinterland communities, ensuring equitable access to essential services.