Chenapou Village is an Amerindian settlement located about 29 miles up the Potaro River in Region 8 Potaro-Siparuni. This is the river that feeds the magnificent Kaieteur Falls. It is a small village on the banks of the river in a jungle environment.
Keeping Things Clean
Chenapou is said to be one of the best get away places from the everyday hassles of city life. The name Chenapou is a Patamona word and when translated means Frog Pond and the village would have gotten its name from the variety of frogs that inhibits the pond. One of the most popular one, is called ‘mountain chicken’ and in this village, it is called Chenau. Chenapou consists of four major zones. The village consists of approximately 620 residents and is managed by a village council that is headed by a Toshao, Vice-Toshao, treasurer and secretary. Councillors are responsible for different zones in the community and are also assigned duties in relation to health, education and the environment as well as other areas.
The primary language of Chenapou is Patamona coming from its main tribe which is also Patamona. Residents of Patamona hold a christian belief which is the primary religion in the community. Nearby villages include Karisparu and Kopinang.
Infrastructure
Warishi ready- this woman prepares to go into the farm to pull some cassava
The roads of Chenapou are excellent for riding as a mode of transportation. In the village, there are three shops which sells groceries to the residents of the community. Further the village has a primary school of which gives a foundation in education to children of the community. Chenapou Primary School is one of Guyana’s most remote schools. It is a small school situated in the heart of the village. Adding to that a health worker is available at the health center to provide health care and medical assistance as the need arises. Chenapou’s main source of water is the river of which residents would usually go to wash clothes among other things and their main source of electricity is via solar panels.
How to get to Chenapou
The village is accessible by an approximate three hours boat ride. However, it depends on how fast the boat travels.
Mode of transportation in Chenapou
Residents move around the village either by walking, riding or using engine boats.
Economic activities of Chenapou
Drying Cassava Bread
Residents of Chenapou are mainly involved in mining which provides a major source of income for survival. Adding to that, residents also engage in subsistence farming. All fertile farming areas are located outside the Village title with cassava, plantain, banana, pumpkin and squash being common crops. Most households make local drinks such as cassiri, parakari and fly.
Because of the location, Chenapou Village, has limited employment opportunities which are two sectors- mining and farming. The women folk often take up farming as a means of supporting the men who work on mining dredges thereby, providing extra income. It is said that the men ply their trade in the Blackwater – Korobrung area since the earnings from mining are much more feasible for maintaining a family.
Accomodations for visitors to Chenapou
In chenapou there is a high level of comradery and togetherness. They are so knitted that they would get up at the crack of dawn to have breakfast together before they go off to work on their farms. Despite the hardships, the people of Chenapou are resilient and would welcome anyone warmly and treat you as though you are family.
That is the spirit of Chenapou where you do not go hungry or uncared for. Upon visiting, persons can be expected to stay in multi-purpose guest houses which is said to be safe, cozy and comfortable. A visitor will live in a semi-detached house on stilts, with 2 bedrooms, a bathroom and kitchen/living area. They will cook for themselves and will need to bring most of their food in from Georgetown at the beginning of term, as the local shop can be expensive.
Chenapou is said to be the ultimate culmination of a great visit to Kaieteur Falls whether its just for the crisp fresh air or experiencing frog pond or even the boat ride up the Potaro.
Major attraction of the village
A Swim in Frog Pond
Visitors would usually travel to Chenapou for many reasons including relaxation purposes away from the city. Visitors can experience hiking up the mountains to see one of Guyana’s most profound birds called the cock of the rock. Adding to that, visitors can explore the river by canoeing and also visiting the different waterfalls surrounding the community.
Annual village activities
In Chenapou there are a few things happening that can attract potential visitors. Some of these include interesting aquatic games, football and cultural shows especially in the Amerindian heritage month September.
A Chenapou experience is one of greatness and satisfaction.
Article References
- https://www.guyanatimesinternational.com/the-chenapou-way-of-life/
- https://projecttrust.org.uk/guyana-gap-year/chenapou/
- https://guyanatimesgy.com/15-chenapou-families-to-receive-support-to-rebuild-homes/
- Images: Guyana Times International
