-President Ali lauds unveiling of ‘Visual Chronicles of the Mahaica Wetlands and Mangrove’ book

REFERRED to as a national product, the coffee-table book titled “Visual Chronicles of the Mahaica Wetlands and Mangrove” captures the diverse tapestry of Guyana’s biodiversity, documenting stories of the country’s plant and animal life, as well as its people.
The book was officially launched on Wednesday evening at the Umana Yana. During a feature address, President Dr. Irfaan Ali praised the project led by the EMC foundation, a local organisation focused on environmental awareness and education.
‘This is a national product,’ the Head of State said while pointing out its sentimental launch on World Environment day.
He highlighted the proactive approach Guyana has adopted in preserving its forests, biodiversity, and the environment as a whole.
‘We can lead the world in the way we have managed our environment, on the way we have approached climate change and what our forest offers the world and we always have to remind ourselves that this is the position we must start from.”
According to the President, the curators have effectively utilised their assets to align with national development priorities.
This distinctive publication not only showcases Guyana’s abundant natural resources but also functions as a platform for educating not only the people of Guyana, but also a global audience.
“It’s about building a culture, a culture of knowing what we have, understanding what we have, valuing what we have and then appreciating the wealth than can be created with this value,” the Head of State said.
The ‘Visual Chronicles of the Mahaica Wetlands and Mangroves’ is a ground-breaking initiative, marking the first-ever coffee table book dedicated to showcasing the rich culture and biodiversity of the Mahaica Watershed.
According to the foundation, it features captivating narratives on the region’s people, flora, and fauna, complemented by stunning visuals from talented Guyanese photographer, Nathan Chinapen, Okello Demattos, and Deopaul Somwaru, as well as contributions from UK High Commissioner Jane Miller and her husband, Dr. Rob Miller.
The EMC Foundation was established in 2022 by Mr. Shyam Nokta to support environmental awareness and education in Guyana, with a special focus on youths.