Capoey Lake, a hidden gem on the Essequibo Coast in Region Two, is a paradise that awaits any curious soul. Home to around 760 residents, this beautiful village is currently being led by Toshao Wendy Francis, a retired teacher who taught nursery and primary aged pupils for some 23 years.
“While we see Capoey for what it is now,” Francis in a recent interview with the Guyana Standard said, noting as well that the village has so much potential to be unleashed. She noted that this is one of the main reasons why she decided to run for Toshao, so as to transform and uplift not only the people but the community in making it one of the most ideal tourist destinations in the Cinderella County.
“I decided to run for Toshao because I see the needs of my community. I see there is need for development and a need to elevate the youths,” she explained.
Francis shared that having lived in the village for all her life, one of the issues that has been troubling to her is the lack of job opportunities for youths. “Under my leadership, my aim is to build my community, create opportunities for young people in terms of getting them involved in sporting activities, computer classes; helping them seek further educational needs so that they can benefit for themselves,” she briefed.
She noted that under her tenure, with the support of the Village Council, she intends to bring about programmes and projects that can benefit the residents in helping them to bring about an income for themselves and their families.
Of the list of programmes and projects, she told the Guyana Standard that her team is working includes establishing a revolving fund for which residents can seek help for their small business within in the community. She said her team is also interested in improving health care for the elderly.
As part of caring for the elderly, she shared that they would be working closely with officials to ensure the enhancement workers in getting them to assist the elderly in their time of need. She added that soon they would be enhancing the condition of the playground and creating a recreational hall so the youths can have a more conducive area to practice their sports.
In terms of sporting activities, Capoey residents tend to be more involved in cricket, football and volleyball games, competing with other villages. “We are working on not only ensuring that these sporting activities are developed but also getting the Guest House repaired for tourist la which will also open job opportunities for residents here,” she added.
While sharing a sneak peak of her plans in terms of improving the lives of the residents, Francis further said that she is engaging the Government and Regional Administration officials in terms of making Capoey a tourism product.
About Capoey Lake
Located just behind the community of Affiance on the Essequibo Coast, Capoey is one of the most exquisite lakes the country has to offer. From its beautiful sandy beaches, refreshing shiny black water and breathtaking naturistic scenery, Capoey is that spot you just cannot get enough of.
According to Toshao Francis, the name Capoey means “the rising of the moon” and is home to the Indigenous people of the Arawak Tribe. As a way of living, Francis said that residents mainly be involved in farming, fishing and lumbering.
The village presently has its own nursey and primary schools, a Guest House, a health centre, a bakery, and a library just to name a few. The Toshao further shared that part of the tourist attractions in the village is the several resorts that line the Lake Top as soon as you enter the village.
Francis added that because of these unique amenities, she intends to work hard and showcase Capoey’s true potential.
