IN recognition of its status as the gateway to the country’s gold mining areas, the monument at the centre of Bartica, the Cenotaph, is being restored, and will have a golden metallic finish. The works are being carried out by Elite Crete Systems.

“There is a lot of significance with the colour we chose, which is metallic gold; it has a lot of significance of being a memorial,” the company’s contractor, Kissoon, said. “It shows strength of the community that is surrounded by the gold industry.”

He said plant pots have been installed around the base of the monument, and there will be a stamped concrete slate finish for the flooring, which will also have a golden touch.

Kissoon said Guyana has to move away from the culture of just dabbing paint on memorials and monuments.

“We have tourists coming into the country often, and we need to showcase proper standards, since many people love taking pictures of things which showcase what Guyana has to offer,” he said.

The monument is set to be completed this week.