By Vanessa Braithwaite

THE township of Linden held its first ever coconut festival two Mondays ago at the Linden-Georgetown Bus Park on Republic Avenue, much to the delight of residents who turned out in their numbers to see what all the excitement was about.And, of course, they were not to be disappointed, as, thanks to the Region 10 Tourism Development Association, in collaboration with the Region 10 Farmers Association, they were treated to a wealth of information on the benefits to be derived from the use, both internally and externally, of this humble but delightful non-traditional fruit.

Speaking of the many ways in which the coconut can help improve Linden’s fortunes, Mayor Carwyn Holland said:
“The by-products of the coconut can allow for us to establish industries which will provide job opportunities for us Lindeners… As Lindeners, let us welcome any initiative; let us adapt; let us welcome any change that awaits us, and work to develop this industry.”
Similar sentiments were expressed by Regional Chairman, Mr Renis Morian, who, prior to declaring the event open, said that the biggest challenge he foresees in the development of a coconut industry is in the packaging and branding of products.
“I think they need guidance, as when you finish making the coconut oil, you need to get guidance as to exciting packaging, so that persons will be attracted to these things,” he said. He also encouraged coconut farmers to keep abreast of what is happening on the market so as to be able to benefit from maximum profits.

A NEW FRONTEIR
President of the Region 10 Farmers Association, Ms Tracy Johnson posited that should the coconut industry in Region 10 take off, it will create a new frontier for agriculture, which in turn will see an increase in productivity and employment in the farming sector.

Another spin-off, she said, will be the networking of the beverage, condiments and craft industries, which in itself will be a big boost.
Director of Tourism, Mr Donald Sinclair was most impressed by the huge turnout, particularly the number of farmers, chefs and craftsmen and women who took the time to participate in the event.
“There certainly is the energy here to display what are the uses of the coconut,” Sinclair said, adding:
“Amazing also is the number of women who are involved in the coconut industry in Linden. What we saw is extremely expressive.”
FOOD GALORE
The exhibition saw a variety of foods on display, especially desserts that were made from the coconut, and are unique to Linden.
Denise’s Institute of Catering had on display several snacks, such as Coconut Mix, Coconut Caramel Slice, Sugar Cake, Coconut Tart, Coconut Yeast Ring, Coconut Shake, Coconut Fudge and Coconut Wafer.
The product that was, however, most sought after was the Virgin Coconut Oil which was being offered by several farmers and organisations such as the Guyana Marketing Association.
Many patrons rushed for this by-product of the coconut that can be used for grooming the skin and hair, and for consumption purposes as well.
Coconut farmer, Owen DeSouza had both the virgin and processed varieties on exhibition, but was more keen on explaining how beneficial the former is, though its a bit more expensive.
VIRGIN COCONUT OIL
To make the 100% Virgin Coconut Oil, De Souza said, one needs to wash and grate the coconut, before setting it in a clean metal container, and leaving it for about 18 hours, then creaming off the fat that rises to the top. The oil is then extracted with a syringe, strained and bottled. The regular oil, on the other hand, is fried, then boiled but that process kills off the vitamins.
DeSouza is calling for the materialising of a local coconut industry, as it would help create employment.
“We should plant coconut at the Mabura/Rockstone junction, because it has the suitable soil; we have the creeks there, and it is more accessible to the interior. And the Brazilians that pass there will be allowed to purchase,” he reasoned.

Other exhibits included coconut craft products such as mats, ornaments and jewellery. There were also the traditional pointer broom and coconut flour.
Monica’s Fabric Designs had on display cotton clothing that were designed with the shell of the coconut and the pointer. Designer Monica Higgins said that her clothing have been receiving local attention, and is pleased with the support received from Lindeners.
The Linden School of Excellence walked away with the winning prize for the food exhibition, while the Watooka Day School copped first place in the composition competition.