Population

Guyana’s population over the last 20 years has barely changed. At 751,223 in 2002, it was actually 35,894 or 1.2 percent below the 1980 population. However, between 1980 and 1990, the population fell by 4.8 percent. With natural rate of increase of 1 percent per year, this represented about a 15 percent decline in Guyana’s population. In part, this substantial decline in the population resulted from the high levels of migration brought about by the harsh economic, social and political conditions that prevailed during this period.

The trend of migration eased somewhat during the period 1990 to 2002, with the population showing an increase of about 27,000 people. Also contributing to the modest rise in the population may be remigration of Guyanese in the early 1990s. Nevertheless, with so many Guyanese residing abroad, the pull factor remains strong. Sponsorship of family members by relatives living elsewhere continues to have a considerable influence on migration trends and a dampening effect on population growth.

In terms of the distribution, Region 4 is the most populated area in Guyana with about 41 percent of the population. The number of people living in this region has remained fairly constant over the last 20 years. Region 6 is the second highly populated region with about 17 percent of the population. But it is also the region, which experienced the highest level of, perhaps, internal out-migration over the two decades. The population in all the hinterland regions increased over the last 20 years, with Region 8 registering the highest increase as a result of internal migration.

Several factors account for the underlying changes in population within the regions. First, increased expansion of economic activities in Region 4, accompanied by the high level of distribution of house lots may have contributed to the steady state of the population. Second, increased mining and forestry activities in the interior regions, with concomitant job creation, may account for the increase in population of these regions. Third, and perhaps, the most interesting aspect of the population trends is the growth in population in Region 10. With the adverse changes in international bauxite prices and new production lines in Brazil and China, the high production costs at Linmine, and the restructuring and privatization of the bauxite entity, the population in Region 10 would be expected to decline. In spite of these factors, however, the population in Region 10 actually grew over the last 20 years. Gold mining, principally Omai operations, forestry and agriculture may have accounted for the population increase.

Table 2.1

Population, 1980-2002

Source: Bureau of Statistics

Table 2.1

Population, 1980-2002

	1980	1990	2002
National	759,567	723,673	751,223
Region 1	18,329	18,428	24,275
Region 2	42,341	43,455	49,253
Region 3	104,750	95,975	103,061
Region 4	314,475	296,924	310,320
Region 5	53,898	51,280	52,428
Region 6	152,386	142,541	123,695
Region 7	14,390	14,790	17,597
Region 8	4,485	5,615	10,095
Region 9	12,873	15,057	19,387
Region 10	38,641	39,608	41,112
	(as percent)
National	100	100	100
Region 1	2.4	2.5	3.2
Region 2	5.6	6	6.6
Region 3	13.8	13.3	13.7
Region 4	41.4	41	41.3
Region 5	7.1	7.1	7
Region 6	20.1	19.7	16.5
Region 7	1.9	2	2.3
Region 8	0.6	0.8	1.3
Region 9	1.7	2.1	2.6
Region 10	5.1	5.5	5.5
	(changes in population)
National	n.a	-4.7	3.8
Region 1	n.a	0.5	31.7
Region 2	n.a	2.6	13.3
Region 3	n.a	-8.4	7.4
Region 4	n.a	-5.6	4.5
Region 5	n.a	-4.9	2.2
Region 6	n.a	-6.5	-13.2
Region 7	n.a	2.8	19
Region 8	n.a	25.2	79.8
Region 9	n.a	17	28.5
Region 10	n.a	2.5	3.7

Source: Bureau of Statistics

View Table

Table 2.1

Population, 1980-2002

	1980	1990	2002
National	759,567	723,673	751,223
Region 1	18,329	18,428	24,275
Region 2	42,341	43,455	49,253
Region 3	104,750	95,975	103,061
Region 4	314,475	296,924	310,320
Region 5	53,898	51,280	52,428
Region 6	152,386	142,541	123,695
Region 7	14,390	14,790	17,597
Region 8	4,485	5,615	10,095
Region 9	12,873	15,057	19,387
Region 10	38,641	39,608	41,112
	(as percent)
National	100	100	100
Region 1	2.4	2.5	3.2
Region 2	5.6	6	6.6
Region 3	13.8	13.3	13.7
Region 4	41.4	41	41.3
Region 5	7.1	7.1	7
Region 6	20.1	19.7	16.5
Region 7	1.9	2	2.3
Region 8	0.6	0.8	1.3
Region 9	1.7	2.1	2.6
Region 10	5.1	5.5	5.5
	(changes in population)
National	n.a	-4.7	3.8
Region 1	n.a	0.5	31.7
Region 2	n.a	2.6	13.3
Region 3	n.a	-8.4	7.4
Region 4	n.a	-5.6	4.5
Region 5	n.a	-4.9	2.2
Region 6	n.a	-6.5	-13.2
Region 7	n.a	2.8	19
Region 8	n.a	25.2	79.8
Region 9	n.a	17	28.5
Region 10	n.a	2.5	3.7

Source: Bureau of Statistics

Tenure Status of Dwellings

The concept of land tenure as it relates to households and as used in the census, refers to the legal and financial arrangements under which households occupy living quarters. It does not refer to the legal or other arrangements surrounding the occupancy of the land upon which dwellings have been constructed. While the proportion of households owning their homes increased from 1980 to 1991, it remained steady between 1991 and 2002. This may be because the increases in 2002 in the number of squatters and the number of rent-free households were offset by a decrease in the proportion of rented private dwellings.

Table 2.2

Dwellings, 1980-2002

Source: Bureau of Statistics

Table 2.2

Dwellings, 1980-2002

Year	Owned	Squatted	Rented (PRIVATE)	Rented (GVMT)	Leased	Rent free	Other
1980	56.1	1.0	24.7	1.4	1.0	11.6	0.7
1991	63.2	1.5	20.2	2.2	0.3	12.0	0.7
2002	63.8	2.3	14.3	0.4	0.5	17.4	0.2

Source: Bureau of Statistics

View Table

Table 2.2

Dwellings, 1980-2002

Year	Owned	Squatted	Rented (PRIVATE)	Rented (GVMT)	Leased	Rent free	Other
1980	56.1	1.0	24.7	1.4	1.0	11.6	0.7
1991	63.2	1.5	20.2	2.2	0.3	12.0	0.7
2002	63.8	2.3	14.3	0.4	0.5	17.4	0.2

Source: Bureau of Statistics

Water

Safe water in Guyana comes from two primary sources: treated tap water from ground water and surface water, and bottled water. Huge investments in the water sector over the past 12 years resulted in over 74 percent of the population having access to safe drinking water in 2002¹. This represents an improvement of 24 percent over the preceding decade. The national averages over the period mirrored improvements in the regions. Specifically, Regions 3, 4, 5, 6, and 10 exceeded the national average while the interior or hinterland regions, on account of the difficult terrain, showed only modest improvements. Region 8 remains the area where access to safe drinking water is most problematic.

Table 2.3

Safe Water, 1990 and 2002

Source-Bureau of Statistics

Table 2.3

Safe Water, 1990 and 2002

Region	Households with Access to Safe Drinking Water
	1990 (%)	2002 (%)
1	35.4	47.5
2	65.8	96.7
3	68.4	96.1
4	72.1	89.8
5	73.8	91.4
6	69.8	95.6
7	52.1	64.7
8	21.7	26.6
9	31.8	42.9
10	67.5	80.2
National	50.1	74.2

Source-Bureau of Statistics

View Table

Table 2.3

Safe Water, 1990 and 2002

Region	Households with Access to Safe Drinking Water
	1990 (%)	2002 (%)
1	35.4	47.5
2	65.8	96.7
3	68.4	96.1
4	72.1	89.8
5	73.8	91.4
6	69.8	95.6
7	52.1	64.7
8	21.7	26.6
9	31.8	42.9
10	67.5	80.2
National	50.1	74.2

Source-Bureau of Statistics

Sanitation

Improved sanitation facilities are defined as linkage to the sewer system or to a septic tank or cesspit. There is a positive trend at the national level, with the number of households with improved sanitation increasing from 31% in 1991 to 40.1% in 2002.² The rise in the national average, however, masks serious shortcomings in several regions. Regions 1, 8, and 9 have the lowest concentration of septic tanks and are way below the national average, whereas Regions 2, 4 and 10 exceed the national average. Region 4 is, by far, the area with the highest connectivity to sewer, septic tank or cesspit.

Table 2.4

Access to Improved Sanitation by Region, 1991-2002

Source: Bureau of Statistics

Table 2.4

Access to Improved Sanitation by Region, 1991-2002

Region	1991	1992
1	9.3	11.6
2	32.4	41.6
3	19.5	28.6
4	42.3	55.8
5	14.8	20.2
6	15.9	27.8
7	17.1	21.4
8	4.1	6.1
9	3.2	4.7
10	32.8	47.3
National	31.0	40.1

Source: Bureau of Statistics

View Table

Table 2.4

Access to Improved Sanitation by Region, 1991-2002

Region	1991	1992
1	9.3	11.6
2	32.4	41.6
3	19.5	28.6
4	42.3	55.8
5	14.8	20.2
6	15.9	27.8
7	17.1	21.4
8	4.1	6.1
9	3.2	4.7
10	32.8	47.3
National	31.0	40.1

Source: Bureau of Statistics

Improvement in access to waste collection and disposal facilities is also evident in 2002, with census data indicating that 22% of households benefit from waste collection services, although the burning of rubbish continues to be the most utilized and most expedient method of getting rid of waste for 67% of households.

Electricity

The main source of lighting for over 69% of households nationally is electricity—not only are these households connected to GPL service but they utilize it more frequently than other options. About 25% of the population, however, is still reliant on kerosene lamps and self-generated power, particularly in Regions 1, 7, 8, 9 and 10

Education

The table below shows a fairly consistent increase in the highest level of education attained by region, from 1991 to 2002. It is clear that access has a significant effect on rates of educational attainment, and the number of persons indicating university/tertiary-level education is lowest in the hinterland regions. At the national level, this increase is most marked at the university/tertiary level and at the secondary level. The comparatively high levels of population with secondary education in Region 4 can possibly be explained by the high concentration of secondary schools relative to other regions and the consequent greater access to secondary education.

At the national level and for almost all the regions, gross enrolment rates exceed 100%. This is because some of the children enrolled at this level are not of the requisite age (between 6 and 11). This happens when children begin primary school at younger ages than stipulated and when children enter primary school at older ages, and remain in school when they are older than 11. In addition, repetition rates may account for higher enrolment ratios. Enrolment ratios at the secondary level also show marked improvement over the last 20 years. Nationally, secondary enrolment ratios rose from 54.5 percent to 65 percent. All regions registered gains in enrolment ratios over the last 20 years although the hinterland regions continue to fall short of the national average. In part, the difficult terrain, population size and the harsh living conditions present serious challenges to physical infrastructure and to recruiting and retaining teachers.

Table 2.5

Highest Level of Education by Region, 1990-2002

Source: Bureau of Statistics

Table 2.5

Highest Level of Education by Region, 1990-2002

	Primary		Secondary		University/Tertiary
Region	1990	2002	1990	2002	1990	2002
1	7374	10,547	1898	5,320	21	109
2	17947	19,343	6791	19,971	103	607
3	39469	40,000	19658	41,982	506	2,323
4	98304	96,226	84887	135,124	4714	15,481
5	22212	18,824	8461	22,766	143	980
6	57414	50,596	32732	48,277	430	2,230
7	5595	5,765	2841	7,180	29	206
8	1975	3,281	546	4,000	2	39
9	5181	7,213	109	6,292	20	78
10	12690	11,729	11330	19,984	249	914
National	268161	263,524	169243	310,897	6217	22967

Source: Bureau of Statistics

View Table

Table 2.5

Highest Level of Education by Region, 1990-2002

	Primary		Secondary		University/Tertiary
Region	1990	2002	1990	2002	1990	2002
1	7374	10,547	1898	5,320	21	109
2	17947	19,343	6791	19,971	103	607
3	39469	40,000	19658	41,982	506	2,323
4	98304	96,226	84887	135,124	4714	15,481
5	22212	18,824	8461	22,766	143	980
6	57414	50,596	32732	48,277	430	2,230
7	5595	5,765	2841	7,180	29	206
8	1975	3,281	546	4,000	2	39
9	5181	7,213	109	6,292	20	78
10	12690	11,729	11330	19,984	249	914
National	268161	263,524	169243	310,897	6217	22967

Source: Bureau of Statistics

Table 2.6

Primary& Secondary Enrolment Ratios, 1980-2002

Source: Bureau of Statistics

Table 2.6

Primary& Secondary Enrolment Ratios, 1980-2002

Enrolment Ratio: Primary Education (Gross)
	1980	1991	2002
National	102.3	105.3	103.4
Region 1	99.2	101	102.4
Region 2	101.2	101	103.5
Region 3	102	103	103.4
Region 4	102.2	103.2	104.1
Region 5	105.2	110.6	105.2
Region 6	103.5	107.3	105.2
Region 7	104.2	108.5	103.5
Region 8	102.2	113.2	107.3
Region 9	117.2	126.6	120.1
Region 10	103.2	105.7	102.4

Source: Bureau of Statistics

View Table

Table 2.6

Primary& Secondary Enrolment Ratios, 1980-2002

Enrolment Ratio: Primary Education (Gross)
	1980	1991	2002
National	102.3	105.3	103.4
Region 1	99.2	101	102.4
Region 2	101.2	101	103.5
Region 3	102	103	103.4
Region 4	102.2	103.2	104.1
Region 5	105.2	110.6	105.2
Region 6	103.5	107.3	105.2
Region 7	104.2	108.5	103.5
Region 8	102.2	113.2	107.3
Region 9	117.2	126.6	120.1
Region 10	103.2	105.7	102.4

Source: Bureau of Statistics

Enrolment Ratio: Secondary Education (Gross)
	1980	1991	2002
National	52.1	54.5	65.0
Region 1	27.1	29	32.5
Region 2	43.5	45.2	52.1
Region 3	49.6	53.3	69.5
Region 4	58.7	63.3	75.8
Region 5	44.6	48.7	58.9
Region 6	45.2	47.8	57.5
Region 7	35.4	38.4	46.2
Region 8	18.2	20.1	33.5
Region 9	23.2	26.7	35.4
Region 10	55.8	65.5	79.6

View Table

Enrolment Ratio: Secondary Education (Gross)
	1980	1991	2002
National	52.1	54.5	65.0
Region 1	27.1	29	32.5
Region 2	43.5	45.2	52.1
Region 3	49.6	53.3	69.5
Region 4	58.7	63.3	75.8
Region 5	44.6	48.7	58.9
Region 6	45.2	47.8	57.5
Region 7	35.4	38.4	46.2
Region 8	18.2	20.1	33.5
Region 9	23.2	26.7	35.4
Region 10	55.8	65.5	79.6

Health

The crude birth rate represents the total number of live births per 1,000. This indicator is closely linked to the age structure of the population, and will be higher in populations where more of the women are of childbearing age (15-49). It is this linkage that most probably best explains the slight decrease in the crude birth rate from 25.19 in 1991 to 23.29 in 2002. Indeed, concomitant population figures indicate a decline in the proportion of the female population between the ages of 15 and 64 from 31.11% in 1991 to 29.94% in 2002, and an increase in the proportion of women of non-childbearing age (1to14 and older than 65). The increase in the crude death rate may similarly be explained by the aging of the population, with 3.92% over 65 in 1991 and 4.27% over 65 in 2002.

Table 2.7

Key Health Indicators, 1980-2002

Source: Bureau of Statistics and Ministry of Health

Table 2.7

Key Health Indicators, 1980-2002

	1980	1991	2002
Infant Mortality Rate (per 1,000)	41	43	29
Maternal Mortality Rate (per 1,000)	NA	140.1	134.7
Crude Birth Rate (per 1,000)	29.84	25.19	23.29
Crude Death Rate (per 1,000)	7.34	7.16	7.22
Doctor/patient ratio (per 10,000)	1.6	3.3	4.6
Nurse/patient ratio (per 10,000)	14.3	5.9	10.5
Beds/patient ratio (per 10,000)	50	28.8	42.4

Source: Bureau of Statistics and Ministry of Health

View Table

Table 2.7

Key Health Indicators, 1980-2002

	1980	1991	2002
Infant Mortality Rate (per 1,000)	41	43	29
Maternal Mortality Rate (per 1,000)	NA	140.1	134.7
Crude Birth Rate (per 1,000)	29.84	25.19	23.29
Crude Death Rate (per 1,000)	7.34	7.16	7.22
Doctor/patient ratio (per 10,000)	1.6	3.3	4.6
Nurse/patient ratio (per 10,000)	14.3	5.9	10.5
Beds/patient ratio (per 10,000)	50	28.8	42.4

Source: Bureau of Statistics and Ministry of Health

The infant and maternal mortality and the crude birth and death rates are all dependent on registration habits, a factor that may be especially meaningful in rural communities and for low-income and/or adolescent persons. Both infant and maternal mortality rates declined over the period, with a particularly significant drop in infant mortality between 1991 and 2002. This decrease cannot be attributed entirely to a declining birth rate, and must therefore reflect improved quality of care for expectant mothers and babies.

Another interesting trend in the health sector is the steady rise in the doctor/patient ratio over the last 20 years. The establishment of the medical school at the University of Guyana and the influx of specialized doctors from other countries through bilateral arrangements, may account for this outcome. Even so, the rate of 200 patients per doctor is still too high. The fact that over 80 percent of these doctors are located in Region 4 raises serious issues of quality of care and access to doctors, especially in hinterland regions. Another troubling issue is the low nurse to patient ratio, which among many factors may be attributed to the migration of health professionals to the Caribbean, North America and the United Kingdom. Bed to patient ratios, which declined precipitously between 1980 and 1991, are recovering as a result of the establishment of several private hospitals and the expansion of government hospitals over the last ten years.

Labour Force Participation

The figures show a steady increase in the numbers of the male and female populations active in the labour force. In 1980, about 85 percent of male and 26.1% of female adult populations were economically active. In 1991, males were still more economically active than females, although these proportions declined to 74.4% for males and 25.1% for females. Higher economic activity rates for men relative to women are the norm for most populations and reflect the traditional division of labour between men and women, in which the livelihood and economic support of the family is regarded as the male responsibility, while women are more engaged in homemaking and the nurturing of children. Significantly, between 1991 and 2002, there is an 18 percent increase in the number of women working, while there is a decrease of about 22 percent in the number of women engaged in home duties. The implications for policy formulation in human services could mean increased demand for childcare services and other child related programmes.

Table 2.8

Principle Activity of Population 15 Years and Older by Sex, 1980-2002

Source: Bureau of Statistics.

Table 2.8

Principle Activity of Population 15 Years and Older by Sex, 1980-2002

	Male			Female
	1980	1991	2002	1980	1991	2002
Worked	148,979	164,319	166,952	43,657	59,048	69,653
Had job, did not work3		96	948		20	340
Looked for work	4,176	4,525	8,813	115	903	4,668
Wanted work and available	5,306	664	6,104	3,424	159	3,557
Home duties	2,257	35,245	10,737	139,634	159,226	124,340
Attended school	2,868	11,218	16,434	4,339	13,875	17,625
Retired	10,643	8,384	13,035	4788	2,169	12,277
Disabled/unable	4,783	4,048	5,605	4779	3,740	4,356
Other	10,104	409	1,217	5020	146	462

Source: Bureau of Statistics.

View Table

Table 2.8

Principle Activity of Population 15 Years and Older by Sex, 1980-2002

	Male			Female
	1980	1991	2002	1980	1991	2002
Worked	148,979	164,319	166,952	43,657	59,048	69,653
Had job, did not work3		96	948		20	340
Looked for work	4,176	4,525	8,813	115	903	4,668
Wanted work and available	5,306	664	6,104	3,424	159	3,557
Home duties	2,257	35,245	10,737	139,634	159,226	124,340
Attended school	2,868	11,218	16,434	4,339	13,875	17,625
Retired	10,643	8,384	13,035	4788	2,169	12,277
Disabled/unable	4,783	4,048	5,605	4779	3,740	4,356
Other	10,104	409	1,217	5020	146	462

Source: Bureau of Statistics.

(a) Prudent Economic Policies

The economy grew at 1.6 percent reversing the negative growth of 2003. Leading this positive growth rate was the expansion in the sugar sector and services. In sugar, favorable weather conditions led to increases in production of 7.6 percent while growth in the construction, transportation and communications sector, and distribution and financial services accounted for 2.3 percent growth. The mining sector contracted by 6.6 percent on account of a steep decline in gold production principally due to the near completion of operations at OMAI. Bauxite output also fell by 12.4 percent, partly attributable to the continued restructuring of Linmine. The manufacturing sector remained flat.

Despite the steep rise in oil prices and its impact on the productive sector and services, the consumer price index registered a growth of 5.5 percent, slightly higher than the 4.9 percent recorded in 2003. On the fiscal front, current revenues rose by 13.8 percent to G$52 billion due largely to increased international tax receipts, the implementation of ongoing tax reforms and growth in direct taxes. On the other hand, current expenditures increased by just under 1 percent. Reduced external interest payments resulting from E-HIPC and the decline in the treasury bill rate contributed to this outcome. Capital expenditure increased by 30 percent to G$22.5 billion, reflecting accelerated implementation of the investment programme. As a result of these developments, the deficit of the non-financial public sector amounted to 4.4 percent of GDP. Complementing the tight fiscal stance was prudent monetary policy, which focused on liquidity management, price stability, private sector credit growth and a responsive exchange rate.

The deficit of the current account of the balance of payments improved from 12.1 percent of GDP in 2003 to 10 percent of GDP in 2004, with increases in imports, particularly of capital and oil, keeping pace with the growth in exports. . Merchandise exports rose by 11.7 percent while the similar growth in reflected a 15 percent rise in the fuel bill and a 19 percent increase in capital and other goods. The capital accounts recorded net inflows of US$56 million due mainly to higher net disbursement of loans and private capital. Even so, the large one-off transaction in the escrow account for Guysuco’s Skeldon factory worsened the overall deficit of the balance of payments. This deficit was financed from reserves of the Bank of Guyana.

Table 3.1:

GUYANA–KEY ECONOMIC INDICATORS, 1998-2004

Source: PCPMU and Ministry of Finance

Table 3.1:

GUYANA–KEY ECONOMIC INDICATORS, 1998-2004

	1998	1999	2000	2001	2002	2003	2004
Production & Prices
Real GDP (factor cost)	-1.7	3	-1.4	2.3	1.1	-0.7	1.6
GDP deflator (factor cost)	2.6	12.8	4.3	1.5	3.7	5.4	5.8
Consumer prices (average)	4.6	7.5	6.1	2.7	5.3	6	4.7
Real GDP per capita	-1.5	1.9	-1.7	1.9	0.8	-1	1.2
National Accounts
Investment	28.8	23.4	22.6	20.8	21.6	21.5	22.1
Private Sector	13.4	11.8	8.8	6.8	8.3	6.5	5.7
Public Sector	15.4	11.6	13.8	14	12.6	14.5	16.4
National Saving	15	12.6	7.3	2.3	6.2	8.9	9.7
Private Sector	6	6.4	6.8	3.7	7.4	8.6	4.3
Public Sector	9	6.2	0.5	-1.4	-1.3	0.4	5.4
External Current Account Balance (Excluding Transfers)	13.7	10.8	-15.6	-18.5	-14.8	-12.1	-12.0
Fiscal Overall Balance (before grants)	-6.8	-6.1	-1.4	-17.2	-14.2	-13	-11.0
Grants (including HIPC Relief)	1.6	4.4	7.7	8.4	8.2	4.6	6.5
Fiscal Overall Balance (after grants)	-5.2	-1.7	-6.3	-8.8	-6	-8.4	-4.4

Source: PCPMU and Ministry of Finance

View Table

Table 3.1:

GUYANA–KEY ECONOMIC INDICATORS, 1998-2004

	1998	1999	2000	2001	2002	2003	2004
Production & Prices
Real GDP (factor cost)	-1.7	3	-1.4	2.3	1.1	-0.7	1.6
GDP deflator (factor cost)	2.6	12.8	4.3	1.5	3.7	5.4	5.8
Consumer prices (average)	4.6	7.5	6.1	2.7	5.3	6	4.7
Real GDP per capita	-1.5	1.9	-1.7	1.9	0.8	-1	1.2
National Accounts
Investment	28.8	23.4	22.6	20.8	21.6	21.5	22.1
Private Sector	13.4	11.8	8.8	6.8	8.3	6.5	5.7
Public Sector	15.4	11.6	13.8	14	12.6	14.5	16.4
National Saving	15	12.6	7.3	2.3	6.2	8.9	9.7
Private Sector	6	6.4	6.8	3.7	7.4	8.6	4.3
Public Sector	9	6.2	0.5	-1.4	-1.3	0.4	5.4
External Current Account Balance (Excluding Transfers)	13.7	10.8	-15.6	-18.5	-14.8	-12.1	-12.0
Fiscal Overall Balance (before grants)	-6.8	-6.1	-1.4	-17.2	-14.2	-13	-11.0
Grants (including HIPC Relief)	1.6	4.4	7.7	8.4	8.2	4.6	6.5
Fiscal Overall Balance (after grants)	-5.2	-1.7	-6.3	-8.8	-6	-8.4	-4.4

Source: PCPMU and Ministry of Finance

(b) Debt Management

Guyana’s debt burden declined in 2004 as eight creditors agreed to cancel 100% of outstanding debt stock. As a result, by end-December 2004, the stock of external debt declined by 1.2% to US$1080 million. Associated with this development, debt service payments fell by 12.2% to US$43.7 million, equivalent to about 10% of exports of goods and on-factor services. This phenomenal decline in the stock of debt is attrible to Guyana’s inclusion and/or qualification as a highly indebted poor country (HIPC).

(c) Fiscal and Monetary Reforms

The Government continued to implement structural reforms to improve its macroeconomic framework and lay the basis for sustained growth. To this end, the Bank of Guyana continued to make substantial progress in banking supervision and prudential regulations. The Financial Institutions Act and the Bank of Guyana Act were amended to strengthen supervision and fiduciary oversight in the financial sector. In addition, the central bank engaged in a number of capacity building exercises, including hosting an anti-money laundering seminar for a wide cross section of stakeholders, bank examiners and inspectors.

The Government also began to implement the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act (FMAA) with the passage of its regulations in December 2004. This Act provides for the regulation of the preparation and execution of the annual budget; the receipt, control and disbursement of public moneys; the accounting for public moneys; and other matters connected with or incidental to the transparent and efficient management of the finances of Guyana. The Integrated Financial Management System (IFMAS) also became operational in January 2004. The IFMAS computerized several aspects of the government accounting function, resulting in more efficient processing and recording of transactions and the generation of timely and accurate financial reporting information. The new system also provides accounting officers and their staff with a modern, practical approach to the management of, and accounting for, government expenditure.

Reforms were also initiated to strengthen the Project Cycle Management System (PCMS). The design of an institutional model for the PCMS was completed, while work to develop the operating procedures and guidelines for the prioritization of projects in the public sector investment programme, was initiated. In addition, a database of projects, including project profiles and relevant information for monitoring and evaluation is being developed. The completion of this project will improve the design, monitoring and evaluation of the public sector investment programme and will advance ongoing efforts to target resources for poverty reduction.

A number of initiatives were also taken to advance tax reforms in 2004. In particular, the Customs Duties (Amendment) Order was issued to minimize discretion in the granting of exemptions. To this end, administrative guidelines and criteria were put in place to aid the granting of exemptions. In addition, in July 2004, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) began the publication of tax exemptions to further improve transparency in the conduct of tax exemptions. In line with this, the Customs (Amendment) Bill was passed. This legislation, which gives effect to the revised Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System, incorporates amendments made under the Fiscal Enactment Amendment Act, the Customs Duties (Amendment) Order and the decisions of the July Meeting of the Council of Trade and Economic Development (COTED).

Further, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) updated and enhanced systems for registering taxpayers, accounting for revenue collections and controlling refunds. A committee was established to implement the new Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) system and the operations of the License Revenue Office were computerized. The operations of the Examination and Investigation, Field Audit, Consumption Tax Audit and Post Assessment Verification Units were consolidated into the Audit and Verification Division. It is expected that this will result in more efficient collection of tax arrears.

Under GRA’s anti-corruption programme, a new Internal Affairs Division was mandated to investigate corrupt practices and complaints against employees, and to recommend appropriate disciplinary action. A Monitoring/Surveillance Unit was also established, monitoring officers trained and surveillance equipment installed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport and Customs Transit Sheds.

Policies, procedures, and systems that were implemented for the administration of the following Acts and Customs Orders include:

• Fiscal Enactments (Amendment) Act No. 2 of 2003

• The Customs Duties (Amendment) Order No. 29 of 2003

• The Customs Duties (Amendment) Order No.2 of 2004

Finally, further steps were taken to increase transparency in public tendering and procurement. To this end, legislation was passed to establish a tribunal to hear appeals to decisions of the Public Procurement Commission (PPC). This paves the way for resolution of grievances of the public when the PPC becomes operational.

(a) Investment Promotion

In spite of political instability, the Government continued its drive to promote private investment. Two approaches were adopted. First, investors were directly approached about business opportunities in Guyana and second, the investment climate was improved through laws and tax reforms that ensure transparency and security for investors. These measures are beginning to work. In 2004, four large investors began the process of establishing projects in the mining and hospitality industries, with estimated costs of over US$800 million. In the mining sector, the Russian Aluminum Company (RUSAL) invested US$20 million in the Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI). Cambior also signed a contract to enter into a joint partnership with the Government in Linmine, which will result in the injection of nearly US$40 million into the privatized company. Two companies were also in negotiations with the Government to establish five star hotels in Guyana.

On the domestic front, the Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED) continued to play a significant role in the development process and in stimulating entrepreneurship. During the year, IPED funded 1,524 loans valued at G$135 million under the Poor Rural Communities Support Services Project (PRCSSP). IPED also saw an increase in the numbers of their hinterland and Amerindian clients. In addition to the Hinterland Thrust, new developments for IPED in 2004 included an initial outreach to younger clients; the promotion of sustainable aquaculture initiatives in the Takatu area in collaboration with SBARAE, a Brazilian NGO; and the provision of skills training to clients.

The EMPRETEC Programme was launched in 2003 to provide a realistic and focused strategy to promote entrepreneurship in order to contribute to the creation of employment and the eradication of poverty. The program is mandated to provide special support to small and medium enterprises and start up entrepreneurs, and to facilitate access to services such as entrepreneurship training, quality management and control, export support services, networking and assistance in fostering business linkages. Since its establishment, the client base has grown to in excess of 200 whose businesses have shown tremendous expansion. The level of business activity among the EMPRETEC entrepreneurs is also sizeable. The EMPRETEC Centre is currently in the process of assessing the full economic impact of the programme over the last two years. However, preliminary estimates indicate an average increase in employment in these businesses of approximately 60%.

(b) Export Promotion

Many initiatives were undertaken in 2004 in support of export promotion. Efforts were made to streamline the Import and Export License application process, including making application forms available on the web. In addition, the Guyana Office for Investment (GoInvest) hosted three Guyana Trade and Investment Expositions in Trinidad, St. Lucia and Barbados. The expositions are part of a series of road shows hosted by Golnvest throughout the Caribbean, to build awareness of export-ready Guyanese products. Golnvest also aims to expand market share and develop new markets through the overseas Guyanese community; to upgrade skills for trade shows; and to promote trade and investment through meetings and joint ventures. The 2004 expositions showcased about 200 companies from a wide range of sectors, with companies in the fresh and processed foods sector being represented by the Guyana Marketing Corporation, and resulted in export opportunities for many of the participating agencies.

(c) Expanding the Economic Base to Benefit the Poor

The Government continued to pursue and support the diversification and development of new activities in order to reduce the economy’s dependence on a few primary commodities and to bolster employment, especially in rural, hinterland, and depressed communities. To this end, the Government has been encouraging medium and large scale operators in the gold mining industry to fill the void that will be created by the closure of OMAI Gold Mines. Vanessa Ventures is conducting tests that may lead to the development of an underground mine to exploit gold reserves. Two other companies, Gold Stone Resources and the Guyana Goldfield are conducting similar explorations.

In the area of petroleum exploration, the Spanish firm, REPSOL, has joined CGX Energy Inc. in search of oil reserves. CGX invested a further US$7.3 million to drill up to five wells in an area where there is a high probability of gas and oil finds. Ground Star Resources Ltd is also examining the feasibility of exploring oil in the Takutu Basin.

Tourism continues to emerge as a promising new growth area, expanding its contribution to national income, foreign exchange earnings and employment generation. In 2004, tourist arrivals broke a ten-year record with numbers of 125,000 and the largest number of cruise ship arrivals.

Agriculture

Rural Agriculture

The Government implemented initiatives to support poor rural farmers involved in crop production including rice and sugar. Such support included the rehabilitation of drainage and irrigation schemes, financing through on-lending from IPED, and promotion of microenterprise through financial support for community- based initiatives. In addition, through the Agricultural Support Services Project designed in part to address rural poverty, the Government (i) provided Farmer training in agronomy; (ii) support for the production of pure line seed paddy; (iii) production of improved rice seed to support improved productivity; (iv) established a Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Laboratory to provide analyses on crop residues to ensure safe levels with relevant environmental data; and (v) provided support for the establishment and maintenance of quality standards. A Veterinary Surveillance laboratory to maintain checks on animal health and disease was also established.

The Sugar Sub-sector

The restructuring and modernization of the sugar sector continues apace. In the sugar sector, the Guyana Sugar Company (Guysuco) continued to implement its shareholders agreement with the Government.

The company continues to reduce its cost of operations with emphasis on containing its wage bill through voluntary attrition, and by keeping wage increases in tandem with inflation. Sugar cane fields are also being developed in the Skeldon area to allow for increased production to support the new factory. Furthermore, incentives are being given to private cane growers to supply Guysuco. This will help reduce overhead and improve the efficiency of the industry. The company has also partially moved from Annual Productivity Incentives (API) to Profitability Incentives. To this end, the new management contract incorporates key features that tie bonuses and other payments to the company’s profitability, cost reductions and productivity indicators such as factory efficiencies.

Guysuco completed all agreements leading to the construction of a new sugar and cogeneration factory at Skeldon. Agreements were signed with the turnkey contractors in July 2004, and the concessional loan facility was extended from the Government of the People’s Republic of China to facilitate the construction of a cogeneration plan. The cogeneration facility will supply 10 megawatts of electric power to the national grid in Berbice. Progress is also being made with the Agricultural Improvement Programme, as evidenced by the increasing trends of sugar production in the Demerara estates.

The Rice Sub-sector

In spite of challenges resulting from increased cost of inputs, drainage and irrigation problems and delayed payment to farmers by some millers, there were significant improvements in the rice industry in 2004. Although there was a reduction in paddy production during the year, exports increased in 2004 to 243,093 tonnes or US$55,066,534.00, the highest export value since 1999. This figure is an indication that the industry is recovering from the decline in export values of the recent past, which were due mainly to difficulties in both the CARICOM and EU markets.

Table 3.2 lists rice statistics for the past six years. Some of the 2004 increase in export volume was due to the increased production in the first quarter of 2004. Some success can also be attributed to the increase in the price during the second crop, with cargo rice increasing from US$208 to US$225 per tonne and white rice moving from US$255 to US$280 per tonne. It is expected that this price trend will continue into 2005.

Table 3.2

Rice Production and Export Statistics 1999-2004

Source: Guyana Rice Development Board.

Table 3.2

Rice Production and Export Statistics 1999-2004

Year	Hectares Harvested	Paddy Production	Yield (tonnes per hectare)	Rice equivalent (tonnes)	Quantity exported (MT)	Value US$
1999	147,071	562,260	3.8	365,469	252,519	US$71,035,677.51
2000	115,872	448,740	3.8	291,967	207,638	US$51,790,072.00
2001	124,565	495,862	3.8	322,310	209,042	US$50,061,834.00
2002	107,902	443,654	3.9	288,375	193,416	US$45,463,590..45
2003	127,662	546,183	4.1	355,019	200,432	US$45,273,049..61
2004	115,742	500,911	4.3	325,592	243,093	US$55,066,513..74

Source: Guyana Rice Development Board.

View Table

Table 3.2

Rice Production and Export Statistics 1999-2004

Year	Hectares Harvested	Paddy Production	Yield (tonnes per hectare)	Rice equivalent (tonnes)	Quantity exported (MT)	Value US$
1999	147,071	562,260	3.8	365,469	252,519	US$71,035,677.51
2000	115,872	448,740	3.8	291,967	207,638	US$51,790,072.00
2001	124,565	495,862	3.8	322,310	209,042	US$50,061,834.00
2002	107,902	443,654	3.9	288,375	193,416	US$45,463,590..45
2003	127,662	546,183	4.1	355,019	200,432	US$45,273,049..61
2004	115,742	500,911	4.3	325,592	243,093	US$55,066,513..74

Source: Guyana Rice Development Board.

Achievements in research in 2004, saw the release of a high yielding and blast resistant variety, G98-135, for cultivation. This variety has the capacity to yield in excess of 36 bags per acre, and at the same time, maintain a milling yield of 55/70. Rice producers also benefited from a reduction in the level of paddy bug infestation in the Autumn Crop 2004, as damaged grain content was reduced from an average of 8-10% for the pervious season to less than 3% for the Autumn Crop. Work has also begun on a “Rice-Fish” cultivation project with assistance from the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), designed to provide additional income to rice farmers.

GRDB’s technology transfer programme provided extension service for rice farmers at several levels. Achievements included the following:

• one hundred and eighty one (181) Farmers’ Field School (FFS) sessions were held throughout the country, in which one thousand two hundred and forty two (1,242) farmers participated. This is a new method of technology transfer being used by GRDB.

• twelve (12) field days were held to give farmers the opportunity to assess the performance of the advanced lines on trial

• 27,125 bags of seed paddy were produced by the Research Station for sale to farmers, eight hundred (800) of which were distributed free to farmers provide to assistance due to crop losses as a result of adverse weather conditions

• nine (9) consultations were held with farmers and millers to address concerns that arose during the purchasing of paddy

• GRDB, assisted by staff from the Rice Producers’ Association (RPA), intensified the monitoring of rice mills during the purchasing of paddy. Officials of GRDB were stationed full time at some mills during purchasing, to ensure fair practice in the trading of paddy

• Six (6) training courses on “Paddy Grading and Warehouse Management.” were conducted by GRDB

• GRDB in collaboration with the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) intensified the monitoring of scales used in the weighing of paddy, and conducted three demonstrations to assist farmers in the use of the mechanical and electronic bulk scales.

Guyana’s main rice markets continue to be the European Union (EU) and CARICOM but in 2004, sales of rice to non-traditional markets, including Brazil, Peru, Dominican Republic and Haiti, increased.

Support for the non-sugar and non-rice agriculture sector resulted in the fostering of the growth of domestic markets for local produce and the expansion of extension services to support small-scale agriculture. To this end, the Ministry of Agriculture provided extension services to farmers and the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (NGMC) facilitated marketing services to agro-processors and exporters of products within the non-traditional sector. Further, NGMC provided technical advice and training to farmers, agro-processors and exporters and established a pack house to facilitate the processing of fresh produce for the Caribbean market, primarily for produce destined to Barbados, Antigua and St. Lucia.

The Fishery and Livestock Sub-sectors

Special emphasis was also placed on improving productivity in the fishery and livestock sectors. Significant progress in the areas of aquaculture and marine fisheries resulted in the aquaculture fish stations at Mon Repos and Anna Regina producing a steady supply of fingerlings, some of which were distributed to farmers in the respective regions. An FAO project on Integrated Fish Farming in Region 6 has been progressing well. With respect to marine fisheries, the Fisheries Department has been coordinating with the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Management (CRFM) to carry out assessments on three (3) species of great economic importance: seabob, sea trout and red snapper.

As of December 2004, the National Dairy Development Programme (NDDP) had established over 1,044 acres of pasture benefiting more than 70 farmers, and rendered 2,721 inseminations to improve the national herd. In addition, as part of its assistance with technological transfer, the NDDP established feedlots in Regions 4, 5 and 6 with funding from the CDB. These feedlots are to be used as models for individual farmers. The NDDP also improved access to the Caricom market for Guyana beef and in 2004, beef was exported to Grenada. NDDP sought to further strengthen export capabilities by approaching several funding organizations to finance the construction of an abattoir to meet the required standards for the exportation of beef.

In spite of these improvements, the NDDP noted a reduction in the cattle population resulting from a number of factors, including increased enforcement of public health regulations, poor market opportunities, migration and cattle rustling. There is also a shortage of land for cattle rearing purposes and improved pasture establishment, due to competition for the resource for crops and housing.

The Guyana Marketing Corporation highlighted limited capacity as a key challenge to the exportation of non-traditional agricultural produce. In particular, transportation problems, limited air cargo space and a lack of consistency in the quality of some produce, limit the list of admissible products entering the US market. These contribute to a negative perception of Guyanese products in external markets.

Forestry

Investments in the forestry sector led to the establishment of two new projects-- Karlam Timbers Limited and Caribe Products International--and the expansion of the operations of Barama Timber Company, Demerara Timbers Limited, Tradewind Marine Industries and the Guyana Furniture Manufacturing Company, resulting in the recruitment of new workers into the sector.

Mining

As with the sugar industry, the mining sector, and particularly the bauxite sub-sector, is undergoing major restructuring. The private sector companies have now taken over the operations of Guyana’s bauxite mining company, with Omai Bauxite Company (formerly Linmine) already re-employing 575 staff. Omai Bauxite Company has so far invested over US$15 million towards restructuring the company. While OBMI’s efforts will be directed initially towards refractory bauxite production, sufficient resources have been made available by the Government to permit the evaluation of, and supply for, an alumina plant project. Discussions in this regard are underway.

The privatization of Linmine assets through the creation of OBMI has reduced, virtually to zero, the large sums that were being provided to Linmine to finance its operations. However, residual obligations remain to support a Linmine Secretariat and to fund electricity subsidies in the area, even while government works to disengage from a prior arrangement with Linden Power Company. To this end, Omai Services Company is establishing a 15 MW power station to ensure reliable power generation.

Considerable progress was also made towards identifying investors and initiating negotiations for the new alumina plant. In 2004, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed with the Russian Aluminum Company (RUSAL) to facilitate a feasibility study of an alumina plant in Linden.

In summary, within the mining sector, the following major projects were completed or initiated in 2004:

• Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)-Guyana Environmental Capacity Development Projects for mercury source characterization and miners’ environmental awareness training. These activities will come to a close in mid 2005, but will be extended through the Mining Management Improvement Project

• Re-vegetation trials for bauxite spoil areas

• Development of a land management system based on active resource identification, allocation based on merit and tenure holding based on beneficial occupation

• Identification and mitigation of key issues for pollution reduction

• Tertiary training for technologists and professionals in geological engineering streamed towards mining, environment, and geology.

In spite of this progress, key challenges remain. These include the need to overcome deeply ingrained habits relating to environmental practices; the need for better physical infrastructure and communications; and the reduction of the impact of health risks endemic to the sector. It is also necessary to develop adequate monitoring and inspectorate mechanism, and to improve technical and professional training and commitment.

(i) Reforms to Enhance the Business Environment

• The Government implemented an ambitious legislative and regulatory reform agenda to advance its support for economic growth. The Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce recently drafted the Competition and Fair Trading Bill, which will be laid before Parliament in June 2005. The objective of the Competition and Fair Trading Bill are to: (a) promote, maintain, and encourage competition and enhance economic efficiency in production, trade, and commerce; (b) prohibit anti-competitive business conduct which prevents, restricts or distorts competition or constitutes the abuse of a dominant position in the market; and (c) promote the welfare and interests of consumers. The Bill establishes a national Competition Commission that shall carry out the functions necessary to give effect to the Bill, granting it the power to investigate potential abuses, prohibit anti-competitive agreements or activities, and levy fines. The Bill also grants powers of investigation and sanction to the CARICOM Regional Community Competition Commission, which shall be authorised to act with regard to cross-border competition issues, as described in Article 174 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas.

• In addition, private sector commercial activity continues to be facilitated through the processing of trade licenses, efforts to address Caricom Common External Tariff waiver requests and assess local impacts of external trade policies.

• Other important legal and regulatory laws that were passed in 2004 included:

  • the Small Business Act to facilitate the establishment of a small business council, a small business bureau and a small business development fund;

  • the Investment Act to stimulate the socio-economic development of Guyana and to attract and facilitate investment;

  • the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Act; and

  • the Bill to Combat Trafficking in Persons.

• Within the mining sector, a complete redrafting of the Mining Regulations took place in 2004. Mine Safety and Health Regulations were also drafted via the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and the International Labour Organization, and await final inter-agency review.

• Substantial progress was made by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) in developing, implementing and coordinating several reforms to improve product quality for domestic consumption and exportation in 2004. To this end, GNBS, in collaboration with the Caribbean Programme for Economic Competitiveness, progressed in its efforts to have eight Guyanese companies certified to the ISO 9001 Quality Management Standard. The companies include Guysuco, the Guyana National Shipping Corporation, the Guyana National Industrial Corporation, and Guyana Stockfeeds Inc. To safeguard consumers’ rights and equity in trade, GNBS carried out widespread accuracy verification of commercial scales, measures, meters and pumps, as well as surveillance at markets and businesses to ensure that all devices used in commerce are tested and stamped.

• The operations of the jewellery industry were enhanced with six workshops, including training on marketing requirements for gold jewellery, the testing of gold samples, and the certification of two establishments. Ninety-eight importers were registered for the importation and retailing of commodities monitored by the GNBS.

• Eight sector committees of the National Committee on Conformity Assessment were established and a plan of action was developed for the establishment of a National Conformity Assessment System. Twelve Guyana Standards covering a range of subjects, including brewery products, carbonated beverages, and occupational health and safety, have been formulated and published. Two Caricom Standards for the Specification of Rum and the Specification for Labelling of Brewery Products were adopted as national standards. Three laboratories in Guyana developed their laboratory management system to meet the requirements of the ISO 17025 standard for accreditation.

(ii) Land Development and Allocation

• The Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission is responsible for the management of public lands in Guyana, including leasing and other forms of titling of public lands and undertaking surveys required for titling. Its mandate also encompasses the development of land policy and land use plans. These are important elements in the PRSP, which sets targets with respect to issuance of land titles, surveys, and the financial sustainability of the operations of the Commission.

• With respect to land titling, the Commission has computerized the application and lease issuance processes, allowing for monitoring, evaluation and the disaggregation of applications and titles issued. The parcel database has also been computerized using the geographic information systems software ARCVIEW. This enables the monitoring of leases on the ground on a parcel-by-parcel basis. The Commission’s financial sustainability function was also automated using ACCPAC, allowing for networking between the finance and lease issuance divisions through the rent portfolio, as well as the tracking of revenues against costs. Work to computerize the Land Registry records will be completed by the end of 2005.

• The Commission tenured leases and titles for 5900 parcels of land in 2004, and titles were registered for more than 200 urban parcels. The Commission is also on target to meet its goal to reduce the time for Land Registry Transfers by private landowners, by the end of 2005.

• Associated with reforms ongoing at the GLSC, significant progress was made towards strengthening the Deeds Registry through enhancement of its physical structure and IT capabilities, the training of staff, and the identification and revision of laws and procedural aspects of laws necessary to facilitate more efficient functioning of the Registry. The Deeds Registry is charged with establishing an improved system to process transports, mortgages, intellectual property rights, business names, companies, trade unions and related matters, in a timely manner.

(iii) Public Accountability and Governance

• In 2004, the Parliament of Guyana took measures to create a unified platform to increase its oversight of the Executive for better decision-making on national issues. Additional Parliamentary Committees were appointed and established for: Assembly; Standing Orders; Social Services; Foreign Relations; Economic Services; Natural Resources; Appointment of Constitutional Commissions; Constitutional Reform; Privileges; Public Accounts; Selection; and Management. Oversight functions were reposed in the four Sector Committees namely Natural Resources, Economic Services, Foreign Relations and Social Services. Terms of reference of the committees are being developed and so are the rules of engagement. The main objectives of the Sectoral Committees are to:

  • summon persons to provide evidence and to scrutinize Government documents and records;

  • review the programmes and projects undertaken by the Executive, and agreed and arranged by the committees;

  • utilize the advisory services of experts in the discharge of their mandates; and

  • submit periodic reports to the National Assembly on the status of their work.

• On the commitment by Parliament to put measures in place for the strengthening of institutional capacity and the functional operations of the National Assembly, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association provided a consultant to work directly with and provide advice to the Speaker and Clerk of the National Assembly. Steps were also taken to engage the services of specialists and other sources of advice for the Sector Committees. In addition, UNDP facilitated the construction, furnishing and equipping of an Information Technology Centre in the Public Buildings. Finally, the Ministry of Finance developed internal control of expenditures with the installation and implementation of the Integrated Financial Management Systems (IFMAS).

(iv) Local Government

• In 2004, efforts continued to be made to promote capacity building and institutional strengthening within the local government system, with the Ministry of Local Government responsible for overseeing, coordinating and ensuring local government organs’ conformity to the laws of Guyana and the policies of the Government. The Ministry’s 2004-2007 work programme included the dissemination of national policies for implementation by the Regional and Local Government Administrations, and the provision of technical advice and guidance to ensure compliance with the laws that govern these entities. Within the 10 Administrative Regions, the Ministry is responsible for the rehabilitation, maintenance and construction of roads, bridges, drainage and irrigation, power generation and other infrastructural works. The Ministry is also charged with monitoring two projects: Phase II of the Urban Development Programme and the Municipal Solid Waste Disposal Programme.

• Progress in 2004 included the establishment and incorporation of the Municipal Services Department into the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development. The Department oversees maintenance and development of infrastructure within the six municipalities. The Ministry coordinated and implemented activities under the Guyana Municipal Governance and Management Programme, a five-year project to strengthen local governance and management within the municipalities of Guyana.

• In an effort to improve accountability, eight Regional Development Officers were appointed to monitor and evaluate capital works contracts within the various Regional Democratic Councils. These Officers, however, require the requisite training to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of goods and services. The Ministry’s capacity for data collection was also enhanced by the acquisition of seven computers in 2004. In spite of such progress, the work of the Ministry continues to be hampered by resource constraints, including inadequate staffing and a lack of equipment such as computers and printers.

(v) Decentralisation of Public Services

• In the 2004 PRS Progress Report, the government committed itself to decentralising basic services to the Administrative Regions, particularly with regard to the issuance of birth and death certificates, passports, house lots and land titles, and the processing and facilitation of exports. The Ministry of Home Affairs has since established branches of the General Registrar’s Office in New Amsterdam and Anna Regina for the issuance of birth and death certificates, and the issuance of passports is now the responsibility of the Immigration Units within the Police Division of these two counties. In addition, the General Registrar’s Office in collaboration with the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs also undertook an outreach exercise to Regions 1, 8 and 10 to register persons and issue birth certificates for hinterland communities. Collaboration with the Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) has also resulted in the registration and issuance of work permits to foreign miners working illegally in Guyana’s hinterland.

• The Ministry of Home Affairs has identified Information Technology as a tool to improve administrative and operational efficiency in the six departments under its portfolio. The first phase of computerisation is complete, including a survey funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and conducted by International Business Machines, which examined the structure, function, operational systems and the medium and long term IT goals of the departments. The reports emanating from the surveys included recommendations for achieving the technological goals of the departments. The second phase of this project will see the acquisition and installation of IT systems, the training of local personnel and on-going maintenance.

(vi) Justice System and Crime Prevention

• The Guyana Prison Service is implementing its 2001-2011 Strategic Plan, which prioritises the use of Information Technology to improve its administrative and operational efficiency. Because of its high population density and sometimes unsanitary conditions, the prison environment is one that facilitates the transmission of infectious diseases not only within the institution but also in linked communities. The health of prisoners and the prison environment was therefore given high priority in 2004. In particular, prophylactics for malaria, filaria, small pox and other infectious diseases were administered to inmates on admission to the five prisons. In addition, professional nurses were engaged, staff trained and medical supplies procured to bolster these efforts. Health education for staff and inmates is ongoing, and an important component of this programmes focuses on HIV/AIDS.

• Included in the Guyana Prison Serv-ice Strategic Development Plan 2001-2011 is the reorganization and expansion of priso-ner retraining programmes to develop basic literacy and mathematical skills. A parallel curriculum provides practical training in high-demand sectors. These are remedial programmes meant to reduce the likelihood that ex-inmates will return to crime and to develop their capacity to contribute to their families and comm.-unities.

To confront and suppress violent crime in 2004, the Government of Guyana, through budgetary allocations, provided the Guyana Police Force with the manpower and equipment necessary to improve the organisation’s operational capacity. Several police stations were repaired and/or fortified, and a new station is under construction in Sophia.

Table 3.3:

GUYANA-SUMMARY INDICATORS OF VIOLENCE/CRIME, 2001-2004

Source: Ministry of Home Affairs

Table 3.3:

GUYANA-SUMMARY INDICATORS OF VIOLENCE/CRIME, 2001-2004

	2001	2002	2003	2004
Murder	79	142	206	131
Manslaughter	8	10	18	…
Robbery	38	18	17	28
Robbery under arms	1,005	1,620	1,004	1,100
Robbery with violence	222	252	172	149
Robbery with aggravation	112	134	113	58
Larceny from the person	449	411	287	317
Rape	117	137	122	170
Burglary	419	428	409	382

Source: Ministry of Home Affairs

View Table

Table 3.3:

GUYANA-SUMMARY INDICATORS OF VIOLENCE/CRIME, 2001-2004

	2001	2002	2003	2004
Murder	79	142	206	131
Manslaughter	8	10	18	…
Robbery	38	18	17	28
Robbery under arms	1,005	1,620	1,004	1,100
Robbery with violence	222	252	172	149
Robbery with aggravation	112	134	113	58
Larceny from the person	449	411	287	317
Rape	117	137	122	170
Burglary	419	428	409	382

Source: Ministry of Home Affairs

Under the aegis of a new Commissioner, the Police Force is now better equipped to confront the challenges of national security. While gains made over previous years were consolidated, efforts continued to be made in improving the image of the Force. In spite of this, major challenges remain with regard to financial and human resources.

Other reforms articulated in the Crime Action Plan of the Forces’ Strategic Development Plan 2002-2006 which were implemented in 2004 included:

• (a) promoting and facilitating community policing;

• (b) creating a legal framework for the protection and operation of persons involved in community policing;

• (c) enhancing the ability of detectives to conduct criminal investigations;

• (d) developing an intelligence-led policing style and improving the quality of patrolling; and

• (e) providing a more efficient police prosecution system in the courts.

These measures have yielded some progress, with murder and robbery with aggravation declining for the period under review. Table 3.3 above provides a summary of violent crimes over the last four years.

The Disciplined Forces Commission

The Disciplined Forces Commission established in July 2003 for a period of 6 months, was extended for 3 additional months and concluded in March 2004. The purpose of the Commission was to investigate allegations of police brutality during a period when the country experienced an upsurge of armed robbery, murder, drug-related crime and marco-trafficking. The Disciplined Forces Commission was constituted by the National Assembly to examine matters relating to public welfare, safety, order, defense and security, including the structure and composition of the Disciplined Forces, and to make recommendations to promote their greater efficiency in meeting the needs of the public interest.

The Commission was charged with taking into account the changing nature of crime resulting from increased trafficking of illicit drugs and firearms, backtracking and money laundering; the relevance and recommendations of the International Commission of Jurists with regard to racial imbalance in the Disciplined Forces; terms and conditions of employment, remuneration, training, accommodation, criteria for promotion, discipline, equipment and logistical needs; and rules and regulations governing the issuance of firearm licenses. The findings of the Disciplined Forces Commission were presented to Government and put before the National Assembly for discussion at a Parliamentary Sub-Committee on Disciplined Forces. Work is ongoing with respect to examination of recommendations made by the Commission.

The National Assembly has not been able to establish the Human Rights Commission due primarily to the need for approval of membership. Dialogue continues on appointments to the Commission.

Education

The PRSP establishes education as a national priority and one of the major components of poverty reduction. Within this framework, education is not only a tool for development and decreasing poverty but increasing the level of formal and non-formal education of the population is a goal in its own right. In keeping with this perspective, the 2003-2007 Strategic Plan for Education reflects the government’s commitment to reducing illiteracy, repetition and dropout rates, increasing secondary school enrolment and improving the quality and relevance of education for all Guyanese. The Ministry of Education’s medium term strategy is clearly outlined in the Strategic Plan and relates specifically to two pillars of the PRSP:

• investment in human capital with emphasis on basic education and primary health care; and

• stronger institutions and better governance.

Education sector activities such as school feeding programmes and subsidies to poor and vulnerable children also contribute to the achievement of the PRS pillar of improved safety nets.

Progress in the education sector over the period of review is captured in Table 4.2

Table 4.2:

Key Education Indicators, 2000-2004

Source: Ministry of Education

Table 4.2:

Key Education Indicators, 2000-2004

Enrolment and Literacy	2001	2002	2003	2004
% of primary school entrants reaching grade 6	83.5	88.3	88.3	89.1
Repetition rate (secondary)	12.9	12.6	11.8	10.6
Drop-out rate (primary)1	8%	8%	8%	NA
Drop-out rate (general secondary)	10%	10%	10%	NA
Student/trained teacher ratio (primary)	50.1	50.1	51.1	50.1
Student/trained teacher ratio (general secondary)2	39.1	38.1	39.1	40.1
Gross nursery school enrolment3	87	88	91	92
Gross primary school enrolment3	107	105	104	101.7
Gross secondary school enrolment3	65	65	65	73
% Trained teachers in primary schools4	53	54	56	58.9
% Trained teachers in secondary schools	58.5	58.5	57.1	54.2
% of CSEC passes5	74.5	77.1	75.8	76.6

Source: Ministry of Education

View Table

Table 4.2:

Key Education Indicators, 2000-2004

Enrolment and Literacy	2001	2002	2003	2004
% of primary school entrants reaching grade 6	83.5	88.3	88.3	89.1
Repetition rate (secondary)	12.9	12.6	11.8	10.6
Drop-out rate (primary)1	8%	8%	8%	NA
Drop-out rate (general secondary)	10%	10%	10%	NA
Student/trained teacher ratio (primary)	50.1	50.1	51.1	50.1
Student/trained teacher ratio (general secondary)2	39.1	38.1	39.1	40.1
Gross nursery school enrolment3	87	88	91	92
Gross primary school enrolment3	107	105	104	101.7
Gross secondary school enrolment3	65	65	65	73
% Trained teachers in primary schools4	53	54	56	58.9
% Trained teachers in secondary schools	58.5	58.5	57.1	54.2
% of CSEC passes5	74.5	77.1	75.8	76.6

Source: Ministry of Education

Health

Reforms in the health sector began to take shape in 2004 and will be reflected in a significant way in 2005.

(ii) Human Resource Development

• Human resource management is critical for the health sector. Major initiatives undertaken in 2004 to address the human resource constraint focused on four areas:

  • Intensifying and increasing training;

  • Retaining staff by creating a more empowering environment;

  • Recruiting personnel from abroad; and

  • Joint technical programmes with other countries, including Cuba, China, India, Israel and Nigeria. Additional technical programmes with Canada, the USA and through UN Volunteers will also be pursued.

• In spite of these initiatives, there are still many professionals whose employment status remains unclear, too many positions not filled and a continued shortage of certain skills, especially doctors, nurses and dentists.

(a) Doctors

• At the end of 2004, there were 190 registered doctors, including 11 interns, 13 Chinese and 20 Cuban doctors, working in the public sector. In addition, there are 125 private sector doctors working in Region 4 (102), Region 6 (15), Region 3 (6) and Region 5 (2).

• Clearly, Region 4 with about 40 percent of the country’s population enjoys the services of more than 70 percent of total doctors available. Regions 1, 5, 7 and 8 have the lowest doctor to population ratio. The concentration of doctors in Region 4 may be attributed to the availability of better medical facilities, better living conditions and higher income levels. The low concentration of doctors in the hinterland regions raises serious concerns in addressing the quality of healthcare in these regions.

Table 4.3:

Doctors in the Public Sector

Source: Ministry of Health

Table 4.3:

Doctors in the Public Sector

Type	Reg. 1	Reg. 2	Reg. 3	Reg. 4	Reg. 5	Reg. 6	Reg. 7/8	Reg. 9	Reg. 10	Total
Full		6	6	110	2	12			5	141
Institutional				5						5
Cuban	1	1	6	4		3	3		2	20
Chinese				10					3	13
Interns				11						11
Total	1	7	12	140	2	15	3	-	10	190

Source: Ministry of Health

View Table

Table 4.3:

Doctors in the Public Sector

Type	Reg. 1	Reg. 2	Reg. 3	Reg. 4	Reg. 5	Reg. 6	Reg. 7/8	Reg. 9	Reg. 10	Total
Full		6	6	110	2	12			5	141
Institutional				5						5
Cuban	1	1	6	4		3	3		2	20
Chinese				10					3	13
Interns				11						11
Total	1	7	12	140	2	15	3	-	10	190

Source: Ministry of Health

• There continues to be unfilled needs for doctors in the health sector as a whole, but particularly with regard to General Medical Officers (GMOs) and consultant level physicians. Significant progress was made in 2004 to address needs in specialist areas but there continues to be slow progress in meeting the need for GMOs, particularly outside of Georgetown. The dependency on Cuban doctors as GMOs in outlying areas is not satisfactory as their terms are limited. While the Cuban Brigade provides an invaluable service, it should not be the primary strategy for meeting Human Resource needs in the health sector. Finally, the placement of doctors in Mabaruma, Lethem, Madhia, Moruca, Kwakwani, Lenora, Fort Wellington and Mahaicony and other cottage hospitals remains a challenge.

  • In spite of constraints, progress was made in 2004 in the following areas:

  • Several specialists were employed in the sector, with numbers at the GPHC now totaling 35. These include Cuban and Chinese consultants who are part of the joint GOG/Cuba and the GOG/China technical cooperation Programs. Among the 35 consultant physicians are 6 new staff members recruited from India and several more specialist doctors are expected from India, Russia and Nigeria in 2005.

  • New GMOs were placed at the GPHC, the Enmore Polyclinic, Mahaicony Hospital and New Amsterdam Hospital.

  • Twenty-five students received scholarships to study medicine in Cuba, bringing the number of students studying medicine in Cuba to 150. The number of students studying medicine at UG is now at 68, and the Government decided in 2004 that the Medical Programme at UG must begin to recruit at least 80% of its students through a Government-sponsored programme in which students will be obligated to serve in various parts of the country for at least five years.

  • The MoH is encouraging doctors to pursue post-graduate studies and in this regard, has been facilitating several initiatives. The Government intensified efforts with several collaborating partners to develop local post-graduate programmes. Significant progress was made in 2004 in Surgery, Internal Medicine and Oncology. Arrangements were completed with the Government of Israel to help develop joint study programs to facilitate post-graduate studies by Guyanese doctors. Further advancements were made in 2004 for the commencement of the post-graduate diploma program in surgery, in collaboration with the University of Toronto and the Canadian Association of Surgeons.

  • The GPHC intensified its efforts in 2004 with regard to Continuing Medical Education in Guyana, hosting twenty-two lectures for private and public sector doctors in a wide range of areas.

  • The Ministry of Health, through the GPHC and with local and international collaborating agencies, continued in 2004 to bring specialists (team and individuals) from various parts of the world to work as mentors in hospitals and clinics. These initiatives are meant to build capacity and to enhance the medical skills of the local doctors.

• A special course on cervical cancer screening was conducted at the GPHC in preparation for an intensified effort at cervical cancer screening in 2005.

• 87 doctors and nurses received training in various life support methods organized by the MOH in collaboration with GPHC and with international and local specialists.

(b) Nurses

• The nursing situation in Guyana remains critical with eighty-eight (88) nurses resigning in 2004. Worse still, not enough nurses are being trained to meet the needs of the health sector, in spite of the expansion in 2004 of training programmes for nursing. The number of nurses in training at this time is 337 with 179 in Georgetown, 77 in New Amsterdam, and 81 in Linden. The following are accomplishments in 2004 to note:

• A plan to train 500 additional nurses in 2005 was approved by Cabinet and will be implemented in March 2005. The Georgetown Nursing School intake for 2005 will be 260 students, while New Amsterdam and Linden will each take in 120 new students.

• Changes in the law to address academic and age requirements have been made in order to make the nursing programme more accessible to young men and women across Guyana.

• A new post-graduate programme in anesthetic nursing was negotiated with HVO, and is scheduled to begin in March 2005 at the New Amsterdam Nursing School. The programme will cater for trained nurses from across Guyana and will greatly enhance operating room capacity.

• Continuing Nurse Education courses were conducted in collaboration with Davis Memorial Hospital and the General Nursing Council.

(c) Medexes

• Twenty-five new persons were recruited in 2004 and will undergo 18 months of training in basic medical care. In addition, the MOH, through its Regional Health Services Department began the revision of the Medex Training Curriculum in collaboration with PAHO. The intention is to expand the training period so as to include modules for non-health care personnel to enter the medex training program. At the moment, only nurses or occasionally CHW are recruited into the program but exceptional high school graduates will be permitted to enter into the programme in 2005.

Training was also provided for:

• 12 dentexes and 16 new community dental therapists

• 182 microscopists and 12 senior microscopists received international certification in 2004

• 28 new multipurpose technicians

• 10 X-ray technicians

• 19 rehabilitation assistants

• 10 orthopedic technicians in a new programme conducted by the GPHC

• 24 community health workers received training in rural midwifery

Water

The key elements of the water programme under the PRSP are to increase access to safe water to over 90 percent of the population, to establish the Guyana Water Inc. (GWI), to streamline activities in the coastal zone with an emphasis on the treatment of raw water, and to implement a comprehensive rehabilitation and maintenance plan.

The Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) identified the major problem areas that should be addressed in long-term strategic plans and a review of the Georgetown Water and Sewerage Master Plan and other studies have been completed. Since the creation of the GWI, a new department was established to maintain the existing water distribution systems in small towns and communities, to promote the Hinterland Strategy to increase water provision, and to support community involvement in the management, operation and maintenance of the distribution system.

A strategy and programme for the provision of new and improved services in the Hinterland was approved in January 2004. Several rehabilitation projects undertaken in 2004 resulted in the improvement of service to some customers, or in the installation of new service connections to others. Other projects undertaken in various parts of the country (Regions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 10) resulted in improved service for over 40,000 people. This includes Phases 1 and 2 of the Linden Refurbishment Project under which 6,000 people benefited from improved water quality or first-time service provision.

Table 4.4 provides a summary of progress against PRS indicators in the water sector.

Table 4.4:

KEY WATER INDICATORS, 2001-2004

Source: Ministry of Housing and Water

Table 4.4:

KEY WATER INDICATORS, 2001-2004

	2001	2002	2003	2004
% of population with access to treated water	36.2	44.7	45.1	46.9
Domestic households connected to water system	95180	114266	120072	125763
Distribution network constructed (kilometers)	250	255	265	280

Source: Ministry of Housing and Water

View Table

Table 4.4:

KEY WATER INDICATORS, 2001-2004

	2001	2002	2003	2004
% of population with access to treated water	36.2	44.7	45.1	46.9
Domestic households connected to water system	95180	114266	120072	125763
Distribution network constructed (kilometers)	250	255	265	280

Source: Ministry of Housing and Water

Housing

Consistent with the objectives of the PRSP, the Central Housing & Planning Authority (CHPA) redefined its policy framework with the specific aims of strengthening shelter and land markets, expediting the divestiture of public land for sound residential settlement, accelerating squatter area regularization where appropriate, relocating squatters from land unsuitable for occupation, advancing the institutional strengthening of the CHPA, developing basic infrastructure in new housing areas, and developing long-term planning towards housing development.

The Ministry of Housing and Water maintained momentum in its efforts to improve the quality of life for low and moderate-income citizens. Required actions elaborated in the PRSP which are currently being pursued by the Ministry include:

• Verification of the number of residential buildings in new squatter areas through a household data inventory programme to yield a count of the residential buildings and to assist occupants in accessing financial aid once regularisation is complete.

• Revitalisation by the Squatter Regularisation Department of a number of Community Development Councils (CDCs) and establishment of a total of 18 new CDCs in regions 3, 4, 6 and 10. Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) were also recruited to be part of the regularisation process.

• A consultancy for the Framework for Government Response to Squatting (FGRS) reviewed the penal code on squatting and examined issues of legal compliance.

• Completion of design layouts and sub-division plans for the minimum standards required for housing development.

• Computerisation of records in the Land Management Department, allowing for the easy tracking of applications for house lots, minimising the perception of discrimination in house lot allocation and making the system more transparent.

As the CH&PA continues with efforts to establish sustainable human settlements to improve the quality of life for low income earners, some key challenges remain in the following areas:

• (i) the expansion of Government’s efforts to facilitate increased access to financing by low income groups

• a. increasing the levels of occupancy in the housing schemes and squatter settlements

• b. completing the regularization of squatter settlements, including the resolution of disputes

• c. completing the provision of basic infrastructure in both housing schemes and squatter settlements

The current status of the Land Distribution and Housing Indicators 2001-2004 is shown in Table 4.5 below. The high increase in agricultural leases in 2004 is a result of the completion of the many of the reforms that are being implemented at the GLSC.

Table 4.5:

LAND DISTRIBUTION AND HOUSING INDICATORS, 2001-2004

Source: Ministry of Housing and Water; GLSC

Table 4.5:

LAND DISTRIBUTION AND HOUSING INDICATORS, 2001-2004

	2001	2002	2003	2004
House lots distributed	975	4195	4739	4916
Land/house titles distributed	2416	7474	6020	5003
Lots serviced (L.I schemes)	1500	2300	4674	23000
Lots serviced (squatter settlements)	1000	1100	1120	7524
Lots allocated to L.I household	553	3538	3633	688
Number of low income houses built	128	134	215	300
Agricultural leases	103	540	785	3000

Source: Ministry of Housing and Water; GLSC

View Table

Table 4.5:

LAND DISTRIBUTION AND HOUSING INDICATORS, 2001-2004

	2001	2002	2003	2004
House lots distributed	975	4195	4739	4916
Land/house titles distributed	2416	7474	6020	5003
Lots serviced (L.I schemes)	1500	2300	4674	23000
Lots serviced (squatter settlements)	1000	1100	1120	7524
Lots allocated to L.I household	553	3538	3633	688
Number of low income houses built	128	134	215	300
Agricultural leases	103	540	785	3000

Source: Ministry of Housing and Water; GLSC

Social Safety Nets

The Government, through the Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security has been assisting Guyanese across the country who are considered to be living in difficult circumstances. Under the numerous programmes introduced and implemented, the Ministry has rendered technical, financial and other assistance to thousands of persons. An allocation of $34 million was approved by Cabinet to provide school uniforms to children in every region of the country. From this initial allocation, the Ministry’ Difficult Circumstances Department distributed uniforms to 12,164 children and assisted 1,396 persons to set up small businesses. In 2004, Cabinet increased the allocation for the School Uniform Programme to $40 million, of which $20 million was allocated to the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs for children in regions 1, 8, 9 and the riverain communities of region 7. The remaining $20 million was used by the Human Services Ministry to help 13,028 children in all other areas. In 2004, 1,021 persons were also assisted with small grants to develop their entrepreneurial skills.

The Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security (MLHSSS) took steps to strengthen its capacity and improve the implementation of its programmes. The Social Security and Senior Citizens’ Department at the MLHSSS is responsible for administering the two major Safety Net programmes of the Government of Guyana: Old Age Pension and Public Assistance, both of which are financed by budgetary allocations from the central Government. Progress in these areas resulted in a revised draft national policy on the elderly, the processing of water relief for Old Age Pensioners, and the design of a Management Information System under the PSTAC project. Risk and Vulnerability and Programme and Targeting studies were conducted for both programmes.

Within the Probation and Family Welfare Department, the training of new officers and work on establishing a National Child Protection Monitoring Database, was a significant boost. In collaboration with a number of NGOs, a Children and Violence Project was launched through a series of workshops, and a policy document on Orphans and Vulnerable Children was completed. There was a significant increase in the reporting of child abuse in 2004, although it is not clear whether this represents an actual increase in the number of incidents occurring or increased reporting as a result of the work of the Department and other stakeholders. A Labour Market Study was also completed in 2004, and an action plan is being drafted based on recommendations generated in the survey report. These recommendations will seek to provide support to workers affected by sector restructuring.

These achievements were realised in spite of insufficient staff at the Ministry, especially for deployment in remote areas, and a lack of trained staff in Information Technology and social work intervention. The Ministry’s capacity to respond to currently unserved hinterland communities needs to be urgently enhanced.

The Environment

The National Environmental Action Plan (NEAP) 2001-2004 identified Sustainable Human Development as the cornerstone of the Guyana’s socio-economic programme. The mandate of the EPA is to implement: (i) conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity; (ii) ensure sustainable environmental management; (iii) provide environmental education and awareness; and (iv) provide support systems. Challenges faced by the EPA in 2004 include inadequate funding, difficulties in satisfying donor conditionalities, limited technical expertise, and ineffective coordination among sector agencies.

Hinterland Development

The Ministry of Amerindian Affairs (MOAA) works to provide for the integration of the Amerindian Communities into the wider Guyanese society and to encourage self-sufficiency and economic and social development in the hinterland regions. Because the MOAA collaborates closely with the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, these agencies synchronize their work programmes to ensure the most efficient utilization of resources within Amerindian Communities. The Strategic Plan being devised by the MOAA also factors in the continued need to link with other government sectors, funding agencies and NGOs. Joint ventures that were undertaken included the training of 20 Mines Officers, community forestry development, pest treatment, a birth certificate programme benefiting 4,000 people, and an HIV awareness programme.

Further accomplishments in 2004 included:

• Training in leadership development, including the training of Toshaos as Justices of the Peace and Rural Constables

• The ongoing execution of the Hinterland Scholarship Programme

• Draft revision of the Amerindian Act which is now in the final rounds of consultation

• Land demarcation and surveying exercises for ten communities in Regions 1, 2, 4, 8, 9 and 10. This will eventually result in legal ownership by communities.

• Construction of seven Village Council offices

• Acquisition of thirty-four radio sets and accessories for Regions 1, 2, 4, 9 and 10, in an effort to improve communications between communities

• Distribution of equipment to assist in forestry and agriculture production

• Distribution of boats and outboard engines to enhance river transportation in Regions 1, 2 and 9

• Distribution of school uniforms in Regions 1, 7, 8 and 9.