MASHRAMANI 2012 promises to be of historic proportions as Government has invested a total of $30M for the hosting of activities related to the national occasion. This announcement was made by Head of the Presidential Secretariat (HPS), Dr. Roger Luncheon yesterday, at his post-Cabinet media briefing in the Presidential Complex, Shiv Chanderpaul Drive, Georgetown.
He said Cabinet noted that the enthusiasm of the Private Sector entities grows as the days pass.
With regards to the likely intrigue of opposition political interest, he believes that popular imagination is right.
Luncheon said Guyanese in the diaspora would relish the news of increasing flights from North America, a recent decision that was approved by Cabinet, endorsing the licensing of direct flights between January to May 2012.
He said it was Cabinet’s conviction that Mashramani 2012 holds great promises. It is expected to be bigger and better, as a number of new features have been introduced to the calendar of activities, including competitions.
Among the competitions and activities scheduled for Mash are: Chutney and Soca competitions; Children’s Poetry, Dance and Costume competitions, Children’s Parade; Masquerade band, Inaugural Republic of Guyana lecture, decorated building and calypso competitions. The most anticipated event is the February 23 float parade.
Guyana gained Republic status on February 23, 1970. Mashramani is the highlight of Guyana’s Republic Anniversary celebrations and will be observed this year under the theme ‘Mashing with pride; keeping the tradition alive’.