The Umana Yana is a conical palm thatched building (benab) that was commissioned in 1972 by then Prime Minister Forbes Burnham in recognition of the Amerindian culture of Guyana.
Umana Yana meaning meeting place, was erected by sixty Wai-Wai Amerindians for the Non-Aligned Foreign Ministers Conference in Georgetown, Guyana as a VIP Lounge and recreation center. It was a magnificent representation and recognition of the Amerindian culture of Guyana.
Situated on Main Street next to the landmark Pegasus Hotel, the Benab (the unofficial but widely used name of the building) was a universally known part of the Georgetown landscape that is until a fire on September 9, 2014 gutted the building.
The Benab was 55 feet high and made from local flora including allibanna and manicole palm leaves and was erected using no nails. It was rehabilitated in 2010 and restored to its original glory.
In 1974 Burnham unveiled the African Liberation monument outside the Benab “in memory of all of those who have struggled and continue to struggle for freedom from Human Bondage”. These two structures are an important part of the history of Guyana and the rebuilding of the Benab should be a priority for those in charge.
There is a construction boom in Guyana; multi-story hotels, shopping malls, entertainment centers. These structures mark progress for many, and progress can of course be a good thing. But even as we move forward we shouldn’t forget those things that make Guyana special. You can go anywhere in the world and find hotels and malls but the Benab was unique and showcased the talent and raised global awareness of our indigenous people.
It has been exactly two months since the fire and there have been no visible signs of any rebuilding action. It is imperative that there is a concerted effort by all Guyanese to ensure that this icon of Guyana and highlighting our first people is rebuilt posthaste. The Guyana Government has promised to rebuild this indelible part of Guyana’s legacy. All Guyanese must hold the Government to that promise and be vigilant to ensure the promise is fulfilled soon.
We must preserve our heritage!
Footnote: With the Benab out of the picture there is an unobstructed view of the new Marriot Hotel that is scheduled to open soon.
