Stories and photos by Indrawattie Natram

THE Essequibo Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ECCI) is set to construct an office at Richmond as part of its efforts to expand membership and create economic opportunities for businesses in Region Two.

This announcement was made by ECCI President Ganesh Jaigobin during a cocktail meet-and-greet event on Friday evening at the Jaigobin Hotel in Henrietta.

Jaigobin explained that the new office will be staffed to assist and guide businesses in the region. The event was organised to bring together business people, providing them with a platform to network and create new opportunities.

Looking ahead, Jaigobin outlined the ECCI’s future plans, which include organising business trips to Brazil, Trinidad, Belize, and the Dominican Republic to explore business growth opportunities. Additionally, the Chamber will recommend financing options for small businesses in the region through various government agencies.

“We are willing to work with you; just come on board, and we will advise you accordingly,” Jaigobin said.

He used the opportunity to urge those businesses that are not yet registered with the ECCI to get on board. He also made a commitment that we will work with them.

Meanwhile, Senior Director of Business at Go-Invest Mr. John Edghill highlighted the importance of networking in business, and congratulated the ECCI for organising the event.

He noted that the private sector is a key driver of growth and development and encouraged local businesses to register with the ECCI.

Edghill expressed Go-Invest’s pride in supporting all local hotels in Essequibo.

“Our agency is not just for Georgetown; it’s for everyone. Our Investment Act mandates equal treatment for all investors, both local and foreign,” Edghill told members of the region’s business community.

Edghill pointed out numerous opportunities in tourism, manufacturing, agriculture, and services. He stated that the Go-Invest office promotes exports and urged agro-processors to take advantage of these opportunities.

“How can we market ourselves not just as small businesses, but as part of the Guyana brand? Many of you are familiar with the Guyana certification. We must utilise all available agencies to market your products,” Edghill said.

He emphasised that Go-Invest’s support extends beyond financing, offering assistance in business capacity growth. He highlighted Region Two’s reputation for fresh fruits and vegetables, urging individuals to add value to these products.

Investment Management Officer Mark Peters from the International Development Bank (IDB) informed the gathering about the IDB’s efforts and how it can support businesses in Region Two.

He expressed the IDB’s enthusiasm for collaborating with and supporting businesses in Essequibo, noting that the IDB provides financing for development projects. He said that IDB will be visiting the region in June and as such he is anticipating that moment when he can meet with business owners and advise them further.

Region Two Chairperson Vilma De Silva congratulated ECCI for organising the event.

She said that the region is rapidly transforming in all sectors, and at Anna Regina, the massive buildings erected there is proof of this.

De Silva pledged the region’s RDC’s support towards the ECCI, and said that the land was made available so that the entity could construct its office.

Businessmen and women were given the opportunity to interact with each other.
Also in attendance were General Manager of Transport and Habour, Marclene Merchant; Traffic Chief and Senior Superintendent Mahindra Singh and Regional Commander Khemraj Shivbaran.