The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport is expecting Mash 2010 to be bigger than ever with the traditional festivities and an added “special dimension.”
According to a press release celebrations will be held under the theme ‘Embracing our Diversity, Celebration our Heritage,’ which was written by Devon Bijraj and unveiled at a ceremonial launch recently held at the Umana Yana. The launch included a costume and float parade which moved off from the western carriageway on Main Street near the ministry to Umana Yana accompanied by a steel band.
In his address Minister Dr Frank Anthony said the nation can expect a bigger festival that will include the usual traditional festivities and government’s plan to identify three periods in the year. This is expected to start in February where festivities will be held for an extended period then in August and December where visitors can enjoy a range of entertainment options.
The minister said promoters and entertainers will be included in the activities and government is contemplating tax incentives to ensure the activities are successful. Anthony also said neighbouring countries have expressed an interest in participating in the celebrations. According to GINA the new initiative emerged from a meeting President Bharrat Jagdeo hosted with promoters and entertainers.
Private sector involvement
Vice Chairman of the Private Sector Commission Ramesh Dookhoo told the audience that his organisation often partners with the government. He said the business community has been an active partner in Mashramani celebrations from the beginning and as Guyana prepares to observe its 40th anniversary the private sector will be even more active. “Our companies and firms have been highly visible on Mash day with the decorated floats and colourful costume bands… Mashramani as our own Dave Martins would say, ‘is we own,’ Dookhoo said.
Private sector interest in Mashramani 2010 has already been strong as the minister has said about 10 corporate entities have already shown interest while Banks DIH and Republic Bank have committed to participating.
