The Sustainable Livelihood and Entrepreneurship Development (SLED) programme, headed by the Ministry of Social Protection, is a programme which gives grants to Cooperatives and Friendly Societies to equip them to engage in sustainable, entrepreneurial ventures.
Moreover, yesterday Amna Ally, Minister of Social Protection, led a team to Hiawa Village, Region Nine and launched a SLED sheep rearing project. The Minister met with residents and beneficiaries in an effort to iron out details as it relates to the execution and management of the project. Officials of the Ministry of Social Protection were on hand to ensure that all the necessary requirements were satisfied.
This project, valued at approximately 6.3 million dollars represents the first of its kind in the region. The residents were elated and committed their full support to the efficiency and sustained commitment to the project. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), the Regional Democratic organs, Ministry of Social Protection and the Ministry of Agriculture who will be providing support throughout the duration of the project.
Mr. Andray Pearson, veterinary officer of the GLDA, gave technical guidance to the residence and certified the viability of the land which will sustain the rearing of sheep. Ms. Danmattie Sahoy, Head of the SLED project, was also present at the meetings to give guidance on the Cooperatives Act.
The residence of Hiawa thanked the Minister and her team for the SLED initiative and committed their efforts to the success of their project. Minister Amna Ally encouraged the beneficiaries to understand the importance of their role in ensuring the success of the project and committed the Ministry’s continued support to the community of Hiawa.