THE Rupununi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) would like to take this opportunity to express its full hearted support to the President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana in his effort to launch Guyana’s low carbon development strategy.

We recognise that the people of the Rupununi, Upper Takutu/Upper Essequibo, Region Nine, reside in the largest region of Guyana, in terms of land mass and we are also aware that the Rupununi is strategically located bordering Brazil, the gateway to South America, which also forms part of the Amazon Basin.

THE Rupununi is sparsely populated mainly by Amerindians with a population of about 22,000 people who depend considerably on the vast savannah lands, dense forest and waterways for a livelihood. As we travel throughout the Rupununi we realise that the forested areas in this vast region is still untouched by human activity.

We understand that through climate changes great risks exists in this beautiful region in the form of prolonged dry weather, food shortages, scarce water supplies which will undoubtedly affect the lives of everyone including tourists.

In this regard we appreciate the vision and tireless efforts that our President Bharrat Jagdeo is making, not only for Guyana but for the world, that is to launch a low carbon development strategy for Guyana.

We agree that this will undoubtedly expand and provide economic opportunities for the future development of the indigenous communities not only for Region Nine but all hinterland communities.

We the members of the Rupununi Chamber of Commerce and Industry together with the people of the Rupununi wish to record and pledge our fullest support and cooperation to our President Bharrat Jagdeo in promoting this strategy.
ALFRED RAMSARAN