Dear Editor,

I AM very optimistic that Guyana is on the upsurge as I am seeing more and more signs of overall growth and development across the country, and this is in spite of the raging Global COVID-19 pandemic. Economists speak of “Factors of Production,” which “… is an economic term, describing the general inputs used to produce goods and services to make a profit.”  Subsumed in this view of economics, “… the factors of production consist of land, labour, capital, and entrepreneurship.”  So, what is happening in this regard in Guyana?

First, I see that “Plans are moving apace as some 250 acres of land are being prepared in Tacama, Region 10, to cultivate corn and soya bean locally for livestock feed.” This is according to Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha. Mustapha “… disclosed that land preparation, along with some infrastructural works, has commenced on the farmlands that have been chosen to cultivate the crops and results can be expected as early as November.” It is a trial run and the investment, inclusive of access roads and other accompanying infrastructure, runs to the tune of $500 million.

For too long Guyana has been leaving mass swads of arable lands unused. So, this change is most welcomed. Barring a few hiccups, this venture translates to employment opportunities and cheaper produce. The minister explained that overall, the project will redound in “significantly decreasing the country’s reliance on imports and ensure that prices, especially for poultry, remain constant.”
Secondly, let me go across now to the Capoey Sunrise Bakery. The venture, under the aegis of the Guyana Foundation and the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), is reaping great success. The news is that some 17 women are now employed at the recently opened bakery. And things are looking up as “Work is currently being done on this $12 million facility to install solar panels. The project, when completed, will cost approximately $15 million.” Even though Capoey is not very populous, it can still be a prosperous village, and it can be a forerunner in how women should start thinking and planning.

I echo the sentiments of the Toshao of Capoey, Ralph Hendricks, who stated that, “He is very happy for the women as they are now more empowered and marketable.” He was indeed happy that “… his village will be more economically viable and many women will also learn the skills of baking from those who have already received training.” Mr. Editor, when I combine happenings in Tacama and Capoey, I see a holistic improvement in the nation. Guyana must address not only infrastructural and financial issues; it must focus also on things like women’s equality and liberation and equal opportunity for them as the men of the same land. I hope other ‘far-off’ villages will be inspired to move in this direction.

Yours sincerely,
Yours truly,

Baldeo Mathura