On Wednesday, the Ministry of Tourism, focusing on domestic tourism, launched the Leguan Nite, to promote the island and for visitors to explore and see what is offered at that location.
A release from the Government Information Agency (GINA) said that Leguan is the third largest island in the Essequibo River estuary, a primarily rice farming, cattle rearing and fishing community, and is home to approximately 4,000 people.
Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Indranauth Haralsingh revealed that the event is scheduled for November 9 at the Greens Park Ground, Blenheim, Leguan, Region Three and it is expected to attract a large crowd. The event will serve as an open exhibition to the island, offering a tour to allow visitors to experience life on the island, including a visit to the beach and agricultural areas. Overnight camping will also be facilitated at the Community Centre ground and in the schools’ compounds.
According to GINA, Haralsingh said, “We continue in our efforts to promote domestic tourism and afford all Guyanese the opportunity to see their country and experience the various cultural nuances that define each community”
He said that the exhibition would have local delicacies such as duck, chicken, and iguana curries and coconut choka be on sale and there will be lots of games and fun activities for children. Entertainment will be by the Shakti Strings Orchestra and local dancers and singers. The Ministries of Agriculture and Health will also participate.
However, the main attraction of the event will be the pageant with nine young women competing for the crown in a contest with five segments. The contestants were at the launch and highlighted their platforms: pollution, peer pressure, domestic violence, teenage pregnancy, juvenile delinquency, women empowerment, rights of a child, child abuse and unemployment.
GINA said arrangements will be put in place for transportation to the island by ferry and speed boats to be available on a 24 hours basis to accommodate passengers travelling to the event. The ferry will make its usual trips to and from the island; however the ministry is arranging an additional trip to be added.
