While the 45th Independence anniversary celebrations were being staged at the National Park in Georgetown, Government Ministers were witnessing similar events in the various administrative regions. Minister in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Bheri Ramsarran was in Regions Five and Six, celebrating with residents. Dr. Ramsaran noted this year’s independence celebrations are much more symbolic, since 2011 has been designated as the Year of People of African Descent, and so Guyanese must reflect on and appreciate the achievements of their forefathers, who, if they had not done what they did, Guyanese would not be enjoying the freedoms they do today.
Dr. Ramsaran acknowledged that Guyana is doing well economically, while the nation’s well-being is soundly established. He recognised ongoing development in Region Six, reflected in the region’s growth and the existence of employment opportunities.
He emphasised that over the years, Guyana has shown positive developments, improving the lives of all, while some Caribbean countries are in a sad state.
He was referring to the external debt the country was repaying to international financial institutions, a situation that has been reversed due to the efforts of President Bharrat Jagdeo.
Dr. Ramsaran highlighted continuous developments in Guyana which are reflected in the additional resources injected into the social sector at the national level.
At the level of the region, Dr. Ramsaran pointed to developments including the Berbice River Bridge, new health centres at Whim and Angoy’s Avenue, rehabilitation of health facilities, and medical training provided for many in the region, all signs of transformation that contribute to the economy’s development.
While the administration has been making progressive strides, these have come under criticism, he said, and cited the National Stadium which has housed several international cricket matches since its commissioning.  He also mentioned other youth-based developmental efforts, including the new Olympic- sized pool and the synthetic athletic track.
He recognised the investments made by the administration which target youth development via the acquisition of knowledge in information and communication technology (ICT), sports and the availability of training programmes.
Regional Chairman, Zulfikar Mustapha, called for residents to pay tribute to the persons who were responsible for Guyana’s independence, including former Presidents Cheddi and Janet Jagan, and Forbes Burnham. 
While in Region Five, Dr. Ramsaran recognised the development in the region and called on residents to look at the plans which the region has been mandated to carry out.
He added that while development in Guyana is ongoing, citizens should not become complacent.
Region Five Chairman, Harrinarine Baldeo, noted that the difficult conditions Guyanese were living under prior to independence should be known and youths should inquire from  adults about those times.
Other ministers who fanned out for independence observances were: Minister of Health Dr Leslie Ramsammy in Region One; Minister of Labour Manzoor Nadir in Region Two; Minister in the Ministry of Finance, Jennifer Webster in Region Three; Minister of Legal Affairs Charles Ramson, Region Four; Minister of Tourism Industry and Commerce Manniram Prashad in Region Seven; and Minister of Transport and Hydraulics, Robeson Benn in Region 10. (GINA)