Georgetown, Guyana – Forty Venezuelan Warao Amerindians, including men, women, and children, have been left stranded for over eight hours at the corner of Church and Thomas Streets near Real Value Supermarket. The group, which traveled from Region 2 (Charity), sought government assistance after worsening living conditions in their area.
According to the group’s leader, Mr. Baptisa, they made contact with President Irfaan Ali, who, via a phone call, encouraged them to travel to Georgetown for support.
“We got here since 1 PM this afternoon, but now, eight hours later, we have received no word from the President or the Minister of Amerindian Affairs,” Baptisa stated.
The group, which includes babies and small children, is reportedly hungry, tired, and increasingly desperate as they await help.
Laura George, the AFC’s point person on Amerindian Affairs, arrived at the scene to assist, making urgent calls to the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Secretariat to secure accommodation or further assistance.
AFC Chairman Nigel Hughes also weighed in on the situation, posting on Facebook: “50 Warao persons were encouraged by a high-ranking government official to travel to Georgetown to get government assistance. They pooled their resources, traveled to Georgetown, only to be left stranded in Church Street. We are providing support and are currently working on accommodation tonight.”
As the group’s plight gained attention, Government Minister Kwame McCoy appeared at the scene. However, it was unclear what role he played or whether any immediate assistance was provided.
The situation underscores the vulnerability of displaced Indigenous Venezuelans seeking refuge and support in Guyana. With babies crying from hunger and exhaustion, there are mounting calls for swift intervention to provide shelter, food, and security for the stranded families.
Further developments are expected as authorities respond to the crisis.
