Stakeholders meet to explore tourism opportunities in Region 2

Officials from the Tourism Ministry and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) on Monday met with various stakeholders in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) including the Regional Executive Officer (REO), Devanand Ramdatt to explore tourism opportunities in the region.
The meeting was an initiative of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Oneidge Walrond and sought to better understand the tourism and business development needs of the region.
During the engagement, Ramdatt explained that the region has tremendous tourism potential and the administration is already working on infrastructural development in preparation for an influx of tourists.
He also pointed out that the region has been receiving an overwhelming response from the domestic market. It is also targeting international tourists.
He added that apart from the scenic locations and excellent resorts, the region continues to promote the birdwatching and agro-tourism potential of the region.
He made reference to the enhancement of historical sites including the Bush Lot Indian Monument and the Anna Regina High Bridge.
However, he said a ticketing system should be implemented to access the ferry in order to reduce long hours of delay.
On the other hand, Director of Business, John Edghill emphasised the need for greater collaboration among all stakeholders to reach the region’s tourism potential and to ensure greater support for small and micro-enterprises.
He said the intention is to ensure that the region benefits from the resources of the State and residents are aware of the training and financial resources available.
Meanwhile, Deputy Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Kamrul Baksh explained that the Authority has updated its calendar of training for Region Two while noting that it is also developing a tourism circuit for the region.
He added that training, product development, and the creation of new tourism experiences for the Essequibo Coast are key priorities for the GTA.
Meanwhile, the team will be meeting with stakeholders from the Essequibo Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ECCI) and the Business Committee where they will put forward the recommendation made by the administration.
Present at the meeting were Regional Vice Chairman, Humace Oodit; Deputy REO, Susanah Saywak; Regional Educational Officer, Nichola Matthews; and the Chief Accountant, Johan Seedyal. The Ministry’s team was led by John Edghill and Kamrul Baksh.