On Friday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali met with two residents of Sand Creek Village, South Rupununi, where he committed the Government’s support toward reviving traditional handicraft practices such as hammock making in Region Nine, (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo). The meeting was held at the Office of the President.
The Sand Creek residents gifted the President a hammock – Photo Credit: (Office of the President)
During the meeting, Ken Farria and his wife, Ruth Xavier, noted that the women of Sand Creek and 14 other villages in the Deep South and South Central Rupununi pool their resources to make hammocks and create employment opportunities.
They noted that the hammocks could be sold for as much as $100,000, given the quality and composition. However, the couple said access to outside markets remains a challenge. Therefore, they are seeking the Government’s assistance in this regard. The Head of State said the funding would be provided, and an online platform will be set up to assist in marketing the art and craft products, which also include pure honey.
“We will work on reviving the industry and also work on an online platform. You produce honey, and there is a market for that as well. So we will work with you, but we will need the people in the villages to come together and work with us as well to get this off the ground,” the President said.
The couple also commended President Ali for re-introducing the Community Support Officers (CSOs) programme, which they said will go a long way in providing employment and opportunities for the hinterland youths.
This initiative aimed to develop young Indigenous in the various villages and communities by creating job opportunities, capacity building, and strengthening their interests and skills.
