MINISTER of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha launched a widespread toy distribution initiative on the Corentyne Coast on Tuesday to bring joy to the children by ensuring they received gifts ahead of the holiday season.

With the intention of ensuring every child receives a gift, Minister Mustapha said that while he is on the Corentyne his colleague ministers are in other areas and regions.

“We as a government and a party want to ensure that every child has a gift so that they can enjoy the festive season.”

He stressed that the philosophy of the government is to bring “joy to the face of our children and to also unite people.”

Minister Mustapha then pointed out that the PPP/C Christmas Tree light-up and toy distribution in New Amsterdam was one of the largest seen in the country, and according to him, this Christmas holiday will be one that stands out as “people are planning for the holiday. The spending power of people now is greater today. People are earning much more than any other time before [and] they have the financial ability now to spend.”

Further stressing that the government is making resources available, Mustapha said that his government wants “the people in this country to enjoy the wealth in the country.”

He reiterated, “We want to ensure that every child in this country receives a gift.”

On Tuesday, Minister Mustapha distributed toys to approximately 5,000 children from Number 51/ Good Hope, Yakusari, Johanna, Zambia, Mibicuri, Lesbeholden, Manchester, Whim, Bloomfield, Port Mourant, Chesney and Fyrish. The children were all smiles as they received their Christmas gifts.

At the locations, he also said that despite the challenges faced, the holiday season presents an opportunity to spread love and togetherness.

He also encouraged the children to take some time out to study over the holiday period. As he spoke to them about the importance of an education, he extended holiday greetings to those in attendance on behalf of President Irfaan Ali and Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo.

On Thursday, Minister Mustapha also distributed toys to children from Vryheid, West Canje Berbice, Fort Ordinance Housing Scheme, Canefield, Reliance, Adelphi, Gangaram, Besty Ground, Goed Banenen Land, and other surrounding communities as well as attended the Number 63 Freedom House Christmas Tree light-up and toy distribution.