Barima victims still waiting for promised relief

(Kaieteur News) – Months after the catastrophic sinking of the MV Barima, grieving families, survivors, and residents from White Water, Mabaruma, Wauna, and surrounding communities are speaking out against what they say is a profound abandonment by the State and humanitarian agencies.

During community hearings on Monday addressing the disaster, relatives of those lost and individuals who barely escaped the river, voiced deep frustration over unfulfilled promises of financial assistance, systemic neglect, and the absence of sustained psychological counseling.

Community members gathered in the NAREI Compound, Kumaka to share harrowing accounts of survival, loss, and the heavy financial tolls exacted by the tragedy. For many families, the burden of traveling long distances to attend hearings and maintain memorials has drained limited resources, while official relief remains elusive. Survivors noted that despite public talk of extensive support packages, families have only received about $6,000 worth of goods and support thus far, leaving them largely to fend for themselves without adequate mental health counseling.