THE Chronicle editorial and the President’s comment on the Go-Invest strategy is long overdue. The strategic word missing has always been “Proactive”. This applies to all officials. I once suggested similar thoughts, so it is good to see the President’s comments. Also I suggested that our overseas missions should be heavily involved in seeking increasing trade and investment opportunities. Not sure if any party is open to any comments or perceived criticisms from me or others. It is somewhat amusing if not interesting how Guyanese political parties and their supporters hold fast to the belief that if “one does not entirely agree with me then they must be against me.” So much for ideas of engagement, dialogue and inclusion.

Go-Invest may not be the only investment agency in Guyana but maybe they should be a more proactive and a central or coordinating entity seeking out potential investors and providing supporting assistance until the investment is made successfully. The government must create a web site and other materials that show clearly what natural and other resources and opportunities Guyana offers. We should be sponsoring investment missions from and to Guyana. Some major projects may require more than one investor for all or part of it. We should indicate if any government and local investment partners are available. Also, create an Investment Development Fund that could fund projects and businesses in Guyana with shares sold to overseas Guyanese and potential foreign and local investors. We need more value added projects. The time to be more ‘proactive’ is now.