Upcoming Berbice Expo to focus on oil, gas & agriculture

Launched under the theme “Innovation in Oil, Gas & Agriculture for a sustainable future”, the 18th Berbice Expo & Trade Fair will be held from October 18 to 21, 2024.

The event was officially launched on Friday by Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha at the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce building in Rose Hall.

Mustapha, during his speech, noted that the event brings together stakeholders from across Region Six. He said it showcases the strength and diversity of the local businesses and industries.

Reflecting on this year’s theme, Minister Mustapha explained that the nascent oil and gas sector indeed plays a pivotal role in Guyana’s economy but agriculture remains a key sector.

“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,” Mustapha said.

He further noted that “it is essential that agriculture remains a strong pillar of our development safeguarding food security.”

The sectors aren’t distinct, however.

Mustapha posited that the oil and gas industry offers new avenues for investment in agriculture, therefore creating the opportunity for modernisation.

To support his statement, Mustapha alluded to the billions being spent to modernise and upgrade the drainage and irrigation system in the region.

“As I am speaking we are building two Hope-like canals, one at Manchester/Lancaster and one at No. 52/51.

“(There are) high-level canals that will drain directly to the Atlantic so the problems that we have been faced with over the years of flooding will reduce tremendously.

“We are also constructing an embankment from No.66 to Canje so that we can keep away the water from the backlands and put stress on the Cultivation and housing areas,” he told the gathering.

And explaining why the focus on the extractive and agriculture sectors is important at this expo, the Agriculture Minister pointed out that Region Six has been one of the pillars of Guyana’s economy.

With this recognition, the minister said the private sector must capitalise on the opportunities available.

“We see the private sector as an engine of growth and that is why we are doing the necessary groundwork in infrastructure so that it will be easier for the private sector to invest,” Mustapha said.

Admission this year is $500 and will be held once more at the Welfare Ground in East Canje Berbice.