Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Manniram Prashad, has said Lethem, Region Nine, is on the verge of being transformed into a fully commercialised area. The Minister was at the time speaking at the opening of the 2009 Rupununi Exposition.

Minister Prashad told the residents that President Bharrat Jagdeo and the current administration is committed to providing support to the region and ensuring that residents are geared to take advantage of all available opportunities.

He said that as a result of the opening of the Takutu Bridge, rapid commercial developments have been taking place, including the seven new hotels that have been recently built. The Minister also commissioned the Takutu Gas Station during his visit.

He disclosed that Government will be spending a total of $50M to build roads in the commercial areas, and over 50 plots of land have already been given out.

In July, President Jagdeo had met with the Lethem business community to commence distribution of plots designated within the commercial district. The project, which consists of 65 lots, is a $1B investment that is expected to create 550 jobs.

Minister Prashad reiterated that the President’s visionary leadership is aimed at ensuring that the region develops and grows to its full potential.

He disclosed that the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-INVEST) recently processed over 50 applications for the region’s commercial sector. Over 95 percent of investments done in Guyana are spearheaded by Guyanese.

While foreign investors are encouraged, he urged the local business community to take advantage of the opportunities that are emerging. He also pledged Government’s commitment to working closely with the regional administration and the local business community to ensure that all the people in that area benefit from the developments.

“As tourism develops, more jobs will be created in the area. The markets for craft and other local products will be significantly boosted,” the Minister said. (GINA)