With billions in carbon credit payments, Amerindian villages able to plan their future – Karrau toshao

Toshao of Karrau, Shane Cornelius, has endorsed President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali for a second term, saying billions upon billions being paid to communities through the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) is helping them to plan their own future.

Cornelius, speaking at a PPP/C rally in Bartica on Saturday, praised President Ali for his delivery on promises, transformative policies for Indigenous communities, and expanded internet connectivity in hinterland areas.

He pointed to the revival of the LCDS after the PPP/C returned to office in 2020, noting that the initiative has brought over $14 billion to Indigenous villages nationwide.

“Villages are now seeing direct transformation. Villages are planning their own future… because they have the resources,” Cornelius stated.

Under the LCDS, Amerindian communities receive 15% of Guyana’s carbon credit revenues. Cornelius stressed that this was recognition of their centuries-long role in protecting Guyana’s forests. “We are not greedy. We deserve (it),” he declared.

The Karrau Toshao also credited the PPP for liberalising the telecommunications sector, which paved the way for a partnership with Elon Musk’s Starlink, bringing high-speed Internet to more than 750 hinterland and riverine communities.

“Our Amerindian people have equal access. We are connected to the Internet. We know what’s taking place in every part of Guyana, all because of our visionary leader,” he said of President Ali.

Listing achievements from 2020 to 2025, Cornelius said the government had delivered on its manifesto promises and improved the lives of residents in riverine and hinterland areas.

“To those on the fence… if you’re feeling blue, red is here for you. One love,” he told the gathering.