‘Farmers’ Market’ helping to shape a green economy
DPI, Guyana, Saturday, November 3, 2018
Over sixty farmers and vendors opened their stalls to consumers this morning as the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) hosted a Farmer’s Market Day at Jubilee Square, D’Urban Park.
This event closed out activities for Agriculture Month which was hosted under the theme, “Shaping Agriculture for a Green Economy”.
GMC’s Packaging Facilities Manager, Celestine Butters said though the annual market is intended to showcase local produce, it also aims to boost the support of local business owners. She noted that the interest shown by the consumers is one that she hopes will continue to grow as the government moves towards a green economy.
“This morning persons are much happier because they can have their fruits and vegetables, plucked ducks, pork, fish, chicken in all different forms… We have a lot of plants and agro-processors out here so I want more persons to come out and support local businesses and the ministry’s agenda,” Butters said.
Charles ‘Honey Man’, a vendor, told the Department of Public Information (DPI) this year’s Market Day is one that will give his business a boost in sales while promoting the benefits of honey and its by-products. “I joined this Market Day after being invited by Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) and to promote my business… Sales are going well persons are excited about honey and its benefits… so they are buying more local products, which is great for us,” he said.
Stephanie Frasier, a shopper who has been visiting the annual market since it was launched in 2015, noted that it has continually improved.
“I come every year actually… Last year, I was here and I bought a lot of plants and vegetables… I always try to support local businesses especially Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) where there is seasoning, flour among other products,” she said. According to Frasier, this year she is looking for reasonably-priced honey as it is good for the body.
Leisa Gibson, another vendor, said that she is grateful for the initiative and the shoppers’ support. The benefits, she noted, are twofold, the consumers benefit from the healthy produce and the farmers/vendors benefit from the purchases as it aids in the growth of their ventures.
This is the third year the Guyana Marketing Corporation has hosted its Farmers’ Market Day, which provides an opportunity for vendors to sell their products and to showcase to locals the many options for home grown/made products out of the Agriculture and Cottage Industries.
Neola Damon
Images by Keno George