…theme: “Innovation in oil, gas & agriculture for sustainable future”
The 2024 Berbice Expo and Trade Fair was launched on Friday at the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce (CCCC) office in Rose Hall Town.
The annual expo, slated for October 18-21 at the Canje Welfare Community Centre, will be held under the theme: “Innovation in oil, gas and agriculture for sustainable future.” This is the 18th year that the event will be held and the third time at that venue.
Speaking at the launch, CCCC President Poonai Bhigroog highlighted the significance of the chosen theme, pointing out that it resonates deeply with the current dynamics of the economy and collective aspirations for a prosperous and sustainable future.
“Berbice has always been a region known for its resilience, diversity and potential. It has a rich history grounded in agriculture – one of the pillars of our economy,” the Chamber President said while noting that agriculture has provided sustenance, jobs and economic stability for generations.
“And now, we stand on the precipice of a new era, one that combines our agricultural roots with the emerging opportunities in the oil and gas sector.”
Bhigroog noted that the CCCC played a critical role in this future, and was not merely an institution but “ a dynamic force that represents the heartbeat of our business community”.
The 2024 Berbice Expo and Trade Fair was launched on Friday in Rose Hall Town
He said it was the driving engine for economic growth, entrepreneurship, and regional development.
“The discovery and development of oil and gas resources in our country have undoubtedly brought about great excitement and anticipation. It has opened doors to new economics prospects, job creation, infrastructure and development,” the Chamber President added.
Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, who delivered the feature address, noted that as Guyana emerges as a global player in the oil and gas industry, the agriculture sector takes on even greater importance in ensuring a balanced and resilient economy.
“While oil revenues present tremendous opportunities for growth, it is essential that agriculture remains a strong pillar of our development, safeguarding food security, employment, and rural livelihoods,” the Minister said.
The oil and gas industry, he added, offers new avenues for investment in agriculture, allowing for the modernisation of the sector, by building infrastructure and boosting production.
“By strategically using the wealth generated from oil to strengthen and diversify agriculture, we can create a sustainable and inclusive economic future for all Guyanese,” he declared.
He said Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) played a crucial role in advancing the country’s food security programme.
The Agriculture Minister pointed out that the Berbice Expo and Trade Fair provided a platform for the sharing of ideas, promotion of local products and services, creation of long-term market linkages and networking and investment opportunities, as we work together as “One Guyana” to transform our economy.
He said as efforts were being made to expand, diversify, and modernise the agriculture sector, to make it resilient and competitive, the focus was on two main things: the expansion of the productive sector and ensuring that Guyana emerged as a leading exporter of agricultural commodities.
“We are happy to see that Berbice understands that food security is everybody’s business and that agriculture sustainability and innovation are key to its achievement. This region is well known for its vast rice fields, sugar estates, brackish water shrimp farming, and livestock production.” Mustapha said.
He further said the Berbice Expo would benefit both exhibitors and visitors. He said they should use the opportunity to gather information, create lasting partnerships, solidify long-term investments and position themselves as key players in the development of Guyana’s economy. (G4)
