FFP lauded for continuing help to Amerindian Commnunities

Thursday, 14 November 2013, Source

FOOD for the Poor (FFP) Guyana Inc, yesterday, donated a number of items to the Ministries of Agriculture and Amerindian Affairs.

From left are Projects’/Research Officer at Ministry of Agriculture, Aditya Persaud, Head of NARI, Dr Oudho Homenauth, Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai, National Director for Community Development, Philomena Sahoye-Shury and General Manager of FFP, Kent Vincent

The Ministry of Agriculture was the beneficiary of farming tools and equipment as well as seeds while the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs received foodstuff, beds and mattresses which are intended to be of assistance to the hinterland communities.

General Manager of FFP, Mr. Kent Vincent said that the relationship between is agency and the ministries has strengthened over the years and the agency is pleased to be making the donations.

He pointed out that the former FFP Director had laid a foundation for this camaraderie and it will be maintained.

Head of the National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI), Dr. Oudho Homenauth, who was present, said the intervention is, indeed, a timely one and is grateful for it.

He acknowledged that it is not the first time that such interventions have been made, as it is an ongoing process and the farmers have benefitted immensely.

Homenauth said, if one were to put a price on the gifts, it would be a significant amount as these basic items have provided a boost for development.

Made aware
He assured that the seeds would reach the farmers and they will be made aware that FFP is the donor.

Homenauth admitted that this is in keeping with the enhancing of food security and diversity in terms of supply.

He added that, with regard to the tools, there is always a demand for them and, sometimes, there is not any available, but now, those in need will benefit.

Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Ms. Pauline Sukhai, who was present, too, said she is very much aware of the work and donations FFP has been making over the number of years to help the vulnerable and of the country.

She confirmed that the ministry has a very good relationship with FFP and considers their assistance as being very significant.

Sukhai said one great area of significance is the housing which FFP has been undertaking, as it is supporting Amerindian villages for more than five years now.

She said she was present at the launching of most of the schemes and, of course, they are very well appreciated and the ministry recognises the support in FFP’s effort in the upgrading of housing.

She remarked that, although many agencies have given back to communities, FFP arms have been very wide and she lauded the recently launched the Swan community housing project.

Sukhai said that development is one on which the ministry has worked, consistently, with many agencies to ensure that issues such as surveys etc was sorted out.

She explained that Swan was just a settlement where the indigenous people chose to make their homes and lots of attention and intervention was needed.

She thanked FFP for the support and all they have done, noting that the items given will enhance the accommodation and lives of the Amerindian people.

General Manager of FFP Kent Vincent hands over the items to Minister Pauline Sukhai. Looking on are representatives of the Amerindian Affairs Ministry and the Ministry of Agriculture