“Diversity does not divide us, but defines us”– Finance Minister

Diversity is not a fault line in Guyana’s story; it is the foundation on which the nation stands. It is not a source of separation, but the defining strength of a people forged through struggle, sacrifice and shared destiny. That was the central message delivered by Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh on Sunday evening at State House in New Amsterdam as Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) ushered in Guyana’s 56th Republic Anniversary with a flag-raising ceremony marked by cultural performances, reflection and renewed calls for unity. Addressing a gathering that included Mayor of New Amsterdam, Wainwright McIntosh, and regional officials, Dr Singh chose not to draw from prepared speeches or historical texts. Instead, he lifted a single line from a young student of New Amsterdam Secondary School who had participated in the evening’s cultural programme. “In the midst of her presentation, she said that diversity is not what divides us, but instead diversity is what defines us,” Dr Singh told the audience, describing the statement as worthy of “very generous applause.” He said the words, coming from a young citizen of Region Six, reflected both the promise of the future and the essence of Guyana’s national identity. “We saw Region Six’s diversity and Guyana’s diversity on full display,” he said, referencing the rhythmic ancestral drums, tassa performances and cultural fusion items that formed part of the programme.

“Guyana’s diversity is what defines us, and indeed is the truest source of our strength as a nation,” he added. Singh said that diversity must be jealously guarded and defended, particularly as the country advances into what he described as one of the most promising periods in its history. Shifting his focus squarely to Region Six, the Finance Minister said Berbicians have every reason to be proud of the role the region has played in shaping the 56-year-old republic. He pointed to the 1763 Berbice slave rebellion led by national hero Cuffy as a defining moment that resonated beyond Guyana’s shores and contributed to the global struggle against slavery. He also referenced the leadership of Dr Cheddi Jagan, born in Port Mourant, in the fight for independence, universal adult suffrage and democracy. “In every subsequent era in Guyana’s history, Berbice and Region Six in particular have played an important role and made an important contribution in the shaping of modern Guyana,” he said.

The Minister noted that long before the discovery of oil, agriculture formed the backbone of Guyana’s economy and Region Six stood at its centre. From rice and sugar cultivation to livestock, fruits and vegetables, the Corentyne Coast, Black Bush Polder and the Berbice River communities sustained the country and generated exports. The Berbice sugar estates, Rose Hall, Albion, and Skeldon, were described as shining stars of the industry during that period, while bauxite operations along the Berbice River also contributed significantly to national production. The Minister stressed that the region’s contribution extended beyond agriculture and industry. Many of Guyana’s distinguished professionals, business leaders and industrialists, he said, trace their roots to Berbice, a legacy of excellence that continues to shape the country. Even as he reflected on history, Singh urged residents to look ahead. “Region Six’s brightest and most beautiful years are the years that are immediately ahead,” he declared, citing ongoing and planned developments, including a new bridge across the Berbice River, expanded road networks, the electrification of previously underserved communities, new farm-to-market roads and emerging industrial zones. He referenced the recently commissioned facility at the Guyana Technical Training College Inc (GTTCI) in Port Mourant and the vision for expanded technical and vocational training, as well as the construction of a new hospital in New Amsterdam and the operational regional hospital at Number 75 Village. He also highlighted President Dr Irfaan Ali’s announcement that Guyana’s second gas pipeline will land in Region Six, a move he said will unlock major industrial and economic opportunities.

“There has never been a time that it has been more exciting and promising to be a resident of Region Six than this time,” Dr. Singh said, encouraging residents to pursue skills training, entrepreneurship and investment opportunities to position themselves for the transformation ahead.
Meanwhile, New Amsterdam’s Mayor McIntosh, in his remarks, paid homage to Guyana’s founding leaders, including Arthur Chung, Linden Forbes Burnham, and Dr Cheddi Jagan, urging citizens to honour their sacrifices by playing an active role in national development.
Regional Executive Officer Persaud underscored the principle of “One Guyana,” noting that the republic was built on resilience, shared sacrifice, and the collective responsibility of its people. He said progress must be inclusive and reach every community.
Regional Chairman Junior Bassant echoed those sentiments, describing Mashramani as a celebration of resilience and unity, and pointing to infrastructure, housing, health, and agricultural investments as signs of Region Six’s ongoing transformation.
As the Golden Arrowhead was hoisted against the evening sky, Singh urged residents to harness the strength of their diversity in building an even more prosperous Guyana.
“May the Cooperative Republic of Guyana rise from strength to strength,” he said.