–Minister Mustapha says as Ancient County’s annual expo, trade fair gets underway

By Bebi Shafeah Oosman
THE annual Berbice Expo and Trade Fair officially opened in grand style under the theme “Innovation in Oil, Gas and Agriculture for a Sustainable Future” at the Rose Hall Community Center Ground in East Canje Berbice, last Friday evening.

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, in his address at the opening, said the event is a “cherished annual tradition” and vital platform for celebrating the dynamism of local businesses and industries.

He said: “It allows us to forge new partnerships, foster collaboration, and explore the boundless opportunities for driving economic growth across our country, with a special focus on this region of Berbice.”

Mustapha pointed out that as Guyana emerges as a global player in the oil and gas industry, the agriculture sector takes on even greater importance in ensuring a balanced and resilient economy.

He said: “While oil revenues present tremendous opportunities for growth, it is essential that agriculture remains a strong pillar of our development, safeguarding food security, employment, and rural livelihoods.”

Mustapha then stressed that the oil and gas industry offers new avenues for investment in agriculture, allowing the government to modernize the sector, build infrastructure, and boost production.

“By strategically using the wealth generated from oil to strengthen and diversify agriculture, we can create a sustainable and inclusive economic future for all Guyanese,” Mustapha reasoned.
Berbice, which is known for its rich agricultural heritage and resilient communities, has long been a cornerstone of Guyana’s economy, the Agriculture Minister said, noting: “Its fertile lands and resilient communities have shaped the development of our nation, making it a region that exemplifies both potential and perseverance.”

He said that Berbice is quickly emerging as an investment hub, offering a range of opportunities across key industries in agriculture such as aquaculture, agro-processing, rice, sugar, crops and livestock.

“Its strategic location, fertile lands, and growing infrastructure make it an attractive destination for investors looking to tap into Guyana’s expanding market and regional trade. With the government’s continued focus on modernising the region through critical investments in infrastructure, logistics and value-added production, Berbice stands poised to become a driving force in Guyana’s economic growth and a key player in the Caribbean’s agricultural economy,” Mustapha said.

As the county progresses, the Agriculture Minister emphasised the vital role which both the public and private sector will play in driving economic growth.
Speaking for the government, he said: “We are committed to creating an environment where they can thrive. To this end, the government will be introducing several initiatives.
“Today, as we gather to celebrate innovation, commerce, and community, we recognise the pivotal role Berbice continues to play in advancing our agri-food systems and securing the future of Guyana’s agricultural sector.

“The Government of Guyana remains steadfast in its commitment to transforming our agriculture sector, creating a modern, resilient, and competitive nation. Agriculture is not merely an industry; it is a key component of our nation’s food security and economic vitality.”

Additionally, Mustapha stressed that the Berbice Expo and Trade Fair provides an exceptional opportunity for businesses, farmers, and investors to come together, explore new ventures, and showcase the immense potential that the region holds.

He said: “It is a platform for the sharing of ideas, promotion of local products and services, and the creation of long-term market linkages, networking, and investment opportunities.”
The expo and trade fair which has over 150 exhibitors will run until Monday, October 21. President of the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce, Poonai Bhigroog said that the chamber is extremely proud for putting up the expo for the last 18 years.

He said, over the years, the chamber would have assisted with building a fire station and expended over $25 million with improvements to the Albion Sports Complex and the Rose Hall Estate Ground with funds earned from the expo along with overseeing several other projects and donations being made to various organisations and relief funds.