‘RACE a platform to tap into markets’ – Reg. 6 Chairman
– inaugural Agri and Commercial expo launched in Region 6
– expected to become an annual event
DPI, Guyana, Sunday, August 19, 2018
Local manufacturers and producers in East Berbice-Corentyne promoted their businesses at the inaugural Regional Agriculture and Commerce Expo (RACE) held under the theme “Maximizing the Potential and Productivity of Our Immense Agriculture Diversity”.
The exposition organised by the Regional Administration of Region Six and held at the Albion Sports Complex on Saturday, August 18, is expected to become an annual event as local businesses, entrepreneurs, fisher-folks, farmers and manufacturers made the best of the event to advertise their products and services and expand their customer base.
The Expo was well received by both exhibitors and patrons with many expressing surprise at some of the products that are locally produced and packaged.
“I did not know all these things were on the market for sale. Some of the stuff like the herbal soap and spices, I remember my grandmother making use them …. now I can look for them in the supermarkets and stores” Kelvin Smartt remarked.
Regional Chairman David Armogan in his presentation said the Expo has been in the pipeline for some time and now that it has finally become a reality there is no doubt that it will be held annually. The chairman said he felt a sense of accomplishment having viewed the various booths and called on the producers to make use of the opportunity to expand production so that they can tap into the international market.
Meanwhile Regional Executive Officer, Kim Williams-Stephen said the occasion is part of the government’s vision that is geared towards showcasing and promoting local businesses particularly those involved in agro-processing and raising awareness of the economic activities and the potential development in communities.
“The activity is aimed at making residents aware of the local produce that we have in Berbice and thereby ensure the local producers are being supported. However, in order to get this sort of support the producers need to showcase their products in an attractive and meaningful way,” Williams-Stephen said.
The REO underscored the showcasing the potential of the community or the farmer would help to solicit both local and international investors and this would add not only to the livelihood to the farmers but to the community and the region
There were over 40 booths that showcased various products and services in the agricultural sector including an art and craft booth by residents of Orealla.
Story and Images: Nafeeza Sakur