Be proud of what we have achieved as a country – Finance Minister tells Berbicians

“Anniversaries whether they be an Independence anniversary at the national level or even a birth anniversary at an individual level are always an occasion for retrospection – looking back, reflecting on the past, and also anticipation – looking forward to the future and recommitment to future goals and objectives.”
These were the sentiments of Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh during his address to Berbice residents on Saturday evening on the lawns of State House, New Amsterdam during a flag-raising ceremony in observance of Guyana’s 58th independence anniversary.

Minister Singh said while he agrees with the importance and virtue of modesty and not encouraging boastful-like behavior, it does not mean that one should not be proud of what he or she has achieved.
This he noted is particularly important when it comes to collective achievements.
“There is everything right of being proud of what we have achieved as a country. We are celebrating 58 years of Guyana’s existence as a politically independent nation; free from the shackles of colonial rule but the story of the building of Guyana is far older than 58 years.”

“When we consider what we have achieved as a country, we must consider that journey that involved our indigenous brothers and sisters who were the first people of Guyana. We must consider the journey of our African ancestors brought against their free will under that most heinous and oppressive crime against humanity – slavery. We must consider the journey made by our Indo-Guyanese, Portuguese Guyanese, or Chinese Guyanese ancestors brought under the oppressive system of indentureship; virtually free and forced labour to man cane fields to enrich the colonial power with free labour.”
Focusing on Guyana’s development, Minister Singh pointed out that Berbice made a significant contribution to the political arena.

Further, he added that Berbice is poised for the most exciting times in its development as he listed a series of developmental projects that are currently being undertaken.
The senior government official also urged Berbicians to remain committed to promoting unity while calling out those who seek to undermine and divide the country.
Meanwhile, Regional Chairman, David Armogan explained that the 58th anniversary is a significant milestone considering that for centuries we were under colonial rule.

“And so over the years over that colonial time what we have found is that all of our resources, efforts, and energies were directed to ensure that the British Empire grows and gets wealthier and wealthier.”
Guyana, he added today can boast about being the fastest developing in the world, something that the British would have never envisaged at the time when they gave us independence.
“Because at the time of independence, although we were given political independence, we were not given economic independence,” Armogan noted.
In addition, Regional Executive Officer (REO) Narindra Persaud reflected on the remarkable journey to independence which he noted was not an easy one.
“It was paved with the tireless efforts of visionary leaders like Dr Cheddi Jagan, whose dreams of a free and sovereign Guyana inspired generations. His legacy reminds us that our strength lies in our unity and that by working together, we can overcome any challenge.”
The REO pointed out that over the past four years under the leadership of President Dr Irfaan Ali, Guyana has experienced unprecedented growth and development.
“President Ali’s vision for our nation is rooted in the principles of inclusivity, sustainability, and progress,” he said. Guyana, he pointed out has witnessed significant advancements in education, healthcare, and social services.
“Infrastructure development has been another cornerstone of our recent progress. New roads, bridges, and public facilities are being built, connecting communities and fostering economic growth. These projects are not just about bricks and mortar; they are about creating a foundation for a prosperous future. They are about ensuring that every Guyanese, regardless of where they live, has access to the opportunities they need to thrive,” the REO told those gathered at the event on Saturday.