THE Golden Jubilee Celebrations are just 52 days away, and the Region Two Administration is planning a grand event to mark this momentous occasion.Guyana obtained Independence from Great Britain on May 26, 1966.

Region Two’s Regional Executive Officer (REO), Mr Rupert Hopkinson, has said that celebrations on the Essequibo Coast will be one to remember for a lifetime. Billed as “The Favour of Essequibo”, the grand event is set for May 22 and 23 at the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground. It will feature products and exhibitors only from Region Two.

“This will become an annual event, and will provide an opportunity for visitors to explore more in the region. We hope that it will spark more business activities and encourage more young people to go into entrepreneurship, while at the same time bring all the people of the region together, celebrating our achievements in unity and harmony,” Hopkinson told the Guyana Chronicle.

The Events Organising Committee has been meeting with the business community, cultural organisations, and other stakeholders in the region in preparation for the big celebrations. The Regional Democratic Council (RDC) has also given its full support for the event, Hopkinson said.

He also indicated that the Region Two Administration would assist in funding the setting up of booths in the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground, and transportation will be provided for exhibitors coming from riverine communities.

“This event is not to maximise profits for the organisers or the Regional Administration; rather, it is an opportunity to provide small enterprises (with) the exposure to grow and develop.
Unlike what used to happen at previous expos in the region, no company from Georgetown, or outside of Region Two, especially the big companies, will be allowed to compete with the small businesses on the Essequibo Coast.

“This is also about the future of business in Region Two. It is about showcasing the cassava bread, Cassareep and pepper sauce producers and producers of other goods that are indigenous to Region Two,” Hopkinson stated.

The REO is hoping that, in the future, “The Flavour of Essequibo” will gain traction and as much attention as the Rupununi Rodeo and Bartica Regatta.

The region is also hoping to roll out a number of unity parks, which will feature the Independence Parks at Fear Not, Cotton Field, Good Hope and Anna Regina. Works commenced on constructing these parks a few weeks ago, but it is unlikely that all will be completed on time for the Independence Celebrations.