“We must create room for culture within development” – PM Phillips at Bumbury Village

…says progress must not leave communities wealthier while weakening cultural heritage

As Guyana continues to experience unprecedented development in every region, including Amerindian communities, the country’s indigenous people are being encouraged to preserve their cultural identity. This call was made by Prime Minister (PM) Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, serving as Acting President of Guyana and other officials who attended the National Heritage Day celebrations at Bumbury Village, Region One (Barima-Waini) on Saturday. Bumbury has been named the 2026 Heritage Village as part of Amerindian Heritage Month, which is being observed under the theme: ‘Observing Our Cultural Heritage During Our Diamond Jubilee’. Delivering the feature address at the Heritage Village Day celebrations, PM Phillips pointed out that this theme highlights how Amerindians and their culture have contributed to Guyana’s development over the years.

“As Guyana marks 60 years of independence, Amerindian Heritage Month gives us cause to celebrate and reason to reflect. The presence of our first people within Guyana’s development must remain visible, respected and secure,” Phillips posited. Underscoring the importance of preserving the indigenous culture for generations to come, the PM acknowledged that this is a shared responsibility but reminded that culture survives only when it is practiced and passed on.