TOO many times in Guyana, detractors have been so intense in their search for a reason to criticise, they miss what is most obvious. In this moment of ‘care and concern’ for the flood-hit victims of Region 9, one would have expected some kind of acknowledgement of the sacrificial efforts by the government (not in the sense of bestowing praise, but at least in a gesture of approval and support). However, one can hardly expect ‘a leopard to change its skin.’ So this missive serves to continue the theme of highlighting the intense effort of the government, lest anyone should get the impression that there is any ‘slacking up.’
It must first be noted that even though the government had to act swiftly, it was not (and will not be) a haphazard ‘reaching out.’ Already, the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and his hard-working staff have started to look into the area of recovery from an agricultural standpoint. Minister Persaud’s ministry has already finalised recovery plans for the affected Region 9 and it is also  targeting the affected farmers and their respective communities. So careful is the concerted planning that it extends to other areas (should these be affected-, namely the Upper Berbice region).
A few nights ago the media reported there were consignments leaving Georgetown for Annai and Lethem. These consignments should move further down to Aishalton and other communities that have been affected. Consignments comprise chemicals, quantities of planting materials to deal with pests and diseases, and veterinary supplies.

The second point of deserved commendation in this regard (the first wave of aid) is that it was announced that additional staff have been posted at crucial areas to buttress the efforts.  In many disaster-hit zones, the human element has been left to chance (and usually this ends up in chaos and corruption, like the Grenada 2005 Hurricane). Minister Persaud’s experience and expertise have made a timely surface, and so he has seconded very senior (trained) staff members. These members (with the requisite expertise) are currently coordinating the recovery efforts in an effort to ensure a prompt move once flood waters recede.
In closing, one must be cognisant regarding an initiative that has been undertaken by the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry. According to the bank’s Chief Executive Officer, the bank would be providing financing to those affected by the flood, particularly farmers, at an interest rate of just about six percent. This is most considerate, since it is far below the regular interest rate.  Hopefully, this kind of spirit can become contagious. Again, it should be noted, that it is because of the sincerity, transparency and assiduity of the Ministry of Agriculture, that the Bank made such a move.
So we should all strive for solidarity and sacrifice.