The North Pakaraima Exposition 2017 opens today with Indigenous foods, art and craft on display. The two-day event, which opens in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), is expected to see hundreds of villagers, as well as residents from neighbouring villages converging in Monkey Mountain for the expo.
The 17 villages expected to participate are Paramakatoi; Kato; Kurukubaru; Chenapou; Kopinang; Itabac; Kanapang; Chuing Mouth; Karisparu; Kamana; Waipa; Kaibarupai; Campbelltown; Maicobie; Tuseneng; Taruka; and host, Monkey Mountain.
Pakaraima Toshao, Hampton King receives the cheque from Minister within the Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Ministry, Valerie Garrido-Lowe
Apart from the exhibits, villages will be involved in friendly competitions in football and cricket, with Paramakatoi, Kato and Kurukubaru male teams and Chenapou, Kopinang and Itabac female teams clashing in football, cricket and volleyball.
The North Pakaraima Expo over the years has significantly impacted tourism among other sectors in the region.
According to the Toshao of the village, Hampton King, this year’s exhibition will be significant, since it will have a booth showcasing the semi-precious stones that are used to create exotic jewellery for sale globally.
Monkey Mountain, which is a remote village, is approximately a three-and-a half-hour journey from Paramakatoi village and the village leader is confident that this exposition will boost economic and other developments not only in Monkey Mountain but the entire region.
