More than 3,000 projects are underway in indigenous villages with funding from Guyana’s carbon finance mechanism. This massive undertaking was highlighted by Derrick John, Chairman of the National Toshaos Council (NTC).
He was among several panelists who spoke during the discussion titled “Financing Nature at Scale: Mobilising Capital, Instruments and Delivery Partnerships” at the Second Global Biodiversity Alliance (GBA) Conference on Saturday.
“These projects are transforming life because it’s creating employment for the vulnerable groups, for youth,” the chairman said.
The projects, funded through direct transfers to villages, are also helping communities preserve their traditions and culture while finding new ways to grow local economies.
John said Guyana’s forests and biodiversity have survived for thousands of years because of the stewardship of indigenous peoples, and that this role is now being recognised and rewarded at the national level.
“We are doing more than before because we have that resources available,” he said, crediting President Dr Irfaan Ali for “listening to the voices of indigenous people.”
He further stated that indigenous communities are willing to share the model Guyana has developed with other countries.
The NTC chairman also pointed to the Akarai–Rupununi corridor, which Guyana has committed for biodiversity protection. He called on more donor agencies and private sector partners to join the alliance and support Guyana’s work.
The GBA, which started with about 40 members last year, has since grown to over 140. (Department of Public Information)
