By Mark DaCosta- In a powerful outreach initiative led by the opposition, significant issues plaguing the indigenous community of St. Cuthbert’s Mission have come to the forefront, drawing urgent attention to the detrimental conditions faced by its residents. Azruddin Mohamed, the Leader of the Opposition and Head of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, emphasised a need for immediate government intervention to address the alarming variety of pressing challenges affecting this culturally rich but under-resourced village.

Nestled along the left bank of the Mahaica River in Region 4, St. Cuthbert’s Mission, also known as Pakuri, is a historically significant indigenous settlement. Founded in the late 19th century by Bernardo Emmanuel, an Arawak man, the community was initially named Pakuri, derived from the local Platonia trees. However, following the arrival of Anglican missionaries, it was rebranded St. Cuthbert’s Mission in 1889. Today, Pakuri serves as a cultural symbol of our nation, preserving the heritage of the Lokono (Arawak) people while facing contemporary struggles that threaten its development and sustainability.

During a recent outreach, residents detailed a plethora of issues that underpin their daily lives, with the condition of the village’s main access road standing out as a pressing concern. Described as hazardous, especially during rainy seasons, the road consists primarily of loose crusher run, a situation that has led to numerous traffic accidents. Mohamed reiterated the community’s pleas, calling for the road’s completion and proper surfacing, noting that “a safe and reliable access road is essential for emergency response, education, commerce, tourism, and the overall development” of St. Cuthbert’s Mission.