THE PPP/C Government is continuing to convey its message of national development to all areas of the country and this was evident at the Essequibo Nite 2010, a collaborative event among the Ministry of Agriculture, the Region Two authorities and the private sector.
The event, which was opened on Friday evening, attracted thousands of residents from various parts of the country to participate in the celebrations at the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground, and depicted the development through locally-grown produce and manufactured items.
The annual event which aims to promote harmony and unity among Guyanese also allows persons an opportunity to market their products.
Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, at the opening, said the activity has attracted a large number of participants over the years and he called on farmers and manufacturers to collectively work with Government in ensuring that the sector is able to sustain itself, despite international challenges.
The event attracted an estimated 10,000 people and promoted agriculture diversification. Region Two is known for its production of rice and, according to Mr. Hinds, farmers should now shift away from the traditional sector, so as to supply market demand both regionally and internationally.
Mr. Hinds said that the event was to celebrate with farmers their hard work, since the country needs food and they contribute to food security.
“Our farmers oftentimes have a difficult life, but we do our best, and that is why we have been investing billions in the different regions so as to provide enhanced drainage and irrigation to support their production; farmers in Essequibo are faced with challenges but you have been persevering, so after many months of work, it is only fitting that you have this opportunity to celebrate,” he said.
While lauding the region for being a major supplier of rice, Mr. Hinds said that it is anticipated that this crop surpasses last year’s target, due to stringent interventions by government.
Recalling the history of farmers growing their own food, the Prime Minister said that the Administration has been successful in securing a market in Venezuela, giving farmers access to enhanced market opportunities.
While making reference to the visionary ‘Grow More Food Campaign’ launched in 2008, Mr. Hinds told the gathering that this would ensure that enough food is grown so that farmers can be self-sufficient.

“Agriculture in many countries has been a good base for development; and as such, I urge you to get involved in processing so as to widen your marketable capabilities,” the Prime Minister advised.
He emphasised that that if Guyana is to have a more prosperous future, then it is the people who will have to contribute to ensure that this is realized, pointing out that Government has been investing huge sums to put the country on the path of development.
Region Two, Chairman, Ally Baksh, said the event is not only to showcase the products of Guyanese, but to also give persons a chance to socialize.
“This would be and continues to be an annual event, since our region has the ability to significantly produce, contributing to food security,” he said.
While boasting of the region’s capabilities, he said, “Every year we produce about two million bags of paddy; this is a very rich and fertile region and that is why, after hard work, we celebrate and we are celebrating in fine style.”
The event was officially declared open after the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon by Prime Minister Hinds.
‘Essequibo Nite’ was first hosted in 1999, following the establishment of a committee to conduct an aggressive promotion of the country’s locally-grown products. (GINA)