R.A.C.E. a channel for economic development-Min. Harmon

[youtube url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yDIk2OgoJ9A?autoplay=1″ width=”100%” height=”315″]

[fruitful_sep]DPI, Sunday, April 22, 2018

The Regional Agricultural and Commercial Exhibition (R.A.C.E.)  serves as a “conduit through which farmers, manufacturers and entrepreneurs are exposed on a continuous basis to an environment that will boost increased production and productivity, stimulate innovation and value added, and create employment at the same time.”

This was the view espoused by Minister of State Joseph Harmon as he officially declared the Region Three, Essequibo Islands/West Demerara leg of the exhibition open on April 21, at the National Track and Field Ground, Leonora.

The show hosted by the Regional Administration and Chamber of Commerce and Industry under the theme “For a Good Life, Region Three in a Green Economy” drew a large crowd despite the rain.

Minister Harmon said the R.A.C.E. project which is a brainchild of President Granger must be implemented in each region to showcase the diverse local products across the country.

“Exhibitions like this create a conjugate through which farmers, manufacturers and entrepreneurs are exposed on a continuous basis to an environment that will boost increased production and productivity, stimulate innovation and value added, and create employment at the same time.”

Minister Harmon added, that the exhibition also serves as a tool to expose Guyanese citizens to “healthier locally made products and pushes them to shop locally.”

Some products made from local wood on display at the R.A.C.E.

Patrons views some of the local breed livestock

Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin enjoying some of the activities at the R.A.C.E.

A section of the crowd at the exhibition

(From right) Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally, Regional Executive Officer of Region Three, Dennis Jaikaran, Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin and Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes observe a moment of prayer during the opening of the exhibition

Minister of State, Joseph Harmon making a point during his opening address at the R.A.C.E.

According to the minister, R.A.C.E. aims to increase the manufacturing sector in Guyana, and aid in the government’s vision to eradicate poverty and decrease the level of imported products in the country.

Following a walkthrough and interaction with the exhibitors, Minister Harmon expressed satisfaction with the products on display by the regional farmers, agro-processors and other entrepreneurs. He said it assures the development of agriculture and food security in Guyana and urged the regional administration to make R.A.C.E. a permanent fixture on its yearly calendar.

In brief remarks, Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin posited that the region will have to play a critical role in Guyana’s economic development in the future. He too highlighted the importance of the exhibition as a platform to showcase local products.

Regional Executive Officer of Region Three, Dennis Jaikaran commended the administration for hosting a successful event and urged the exhibitors to be aware of the changing economic climate and the benefits of self- reliance and self-entrepreneurship.

Approximately 70 booths were occupied with various businesses exhibiting their products ranging from crops and livestock, arts and crafts, food, herbs and spices, clothing, furniture, government services and other services to name a few.

Also attending the event was Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally, Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Jaipaul Sharma and other Members of Parliament.

By: Crystal Stoll