Prime Minister Samuel Hinds says traditional activities in the Rupununi like ranching, livestock and pasture development still have the potential to be further developed along with other areas such as aquaculture.
According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release Hinds made these comments at the Rupununi Expo held on November 29 and 30 in Lethem. It was held under the theme ‘Rupununi Bridge to Guyana’s future.’
In his address Hinds said the topography of the Rupununi is also suitable for agricultural activities such as aquaculture. He said too the Rupununi has a high forestation potential which creates many opportunities for logging. The region can use this sector to become a major supplier of wood to both local and overseas companies that manufacture furniture and other products. Hinds also cited Brazil as a neighbouring country that has a thriving lumber industry on the outskirts of Boa Vista. He then suggested that the region can capitalise on the sound bilateral relations Guyana and Brazil enjoy and partner with companies in that country that have markets in other parts of the world. He said Guyana and Brazil also have other arrangements that “facilitate the transfer of experiences.”
He said Ground Star an oil exploration company has started prospecting in the Takutu basin. The company intends to drill two wells, one of which is likely to begin next year. Additionally, pieces of iron ore were identified in the South Kanuku which Hinds said could lead to more interesting discoveries and possibilities.
Meanwhile, Regional Chairman Clarindo Lucas said the authorities have been constantly reviewing its successes and failures as well as exploring possibilities of introducing activities to make the Expo more meaningful. Lucas said he hopes to see a more detailed agenda for the Expo in the near future including participation by stakeholders from all Region Nine communities.
According to GINA the Expo was supported by the Guyana Tourism Authority, Conservation International, the Guyana Rice Develop-ment Board, the Guyana Forestry Commission, the National Agricultural Re-search Institute and stakeholders from the region who displayed a wide array of craft products.
GINA said Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai and Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Kellawan Lall also attended the Expo.
