Guyana Nite 2007 was hailed, in many regards, a successful event this year. The event was hosted at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence on the East Bank of Demerara. The event attracted businesses, both large and small, which have a vested interest in the agricultural sector in Guyana and its development.
When taking the location and level of entertainment expected at the event, it was really very affordable. The
cost of entering the stadium was just $300 per person. This made the event a very attractive feature especially for those living on the East Bank. There were large crowds gathered at the entrance of the show with persons eager to get in. The line I was in extended all the way to the Buddy’s Int’l Hotel, located approximately 300 meters away from the stadium’s entrance. This also shows the capacity of the facility. The security at the facility was undoubtedly tight given the fact that it was handled by both the Lions Club and the Guyana Police Force. As a result, criminal elements were dissuaded from entering the venue. There were also female ranks of the Police Force to search the women and children. This showed initiative on the part of the organizers. This aspect of security preparations is usually taken for granted by organizers of other events. No backup at the security checkpoints allowed the free movement of persons onto the grounds. The efficiency and courtesy on the part of those handling security must be applauded.
The presentations themselves were well displayed in spacious white tents. The arrangement of the bootsavailable for display was done in such a way that the entire ground was fully utilized. Space was abundant allowing a multitude of persons to be able to enter the compound, interact and move freely.
The businesses which brought their produce out for display came not only from within the immediate sphere of the agriculture industry but also from industries utilizing the by-products of agriculture products.
They came from the agriculture sector, the craft industry as well as the food and drinks producing sectors. They represented the small stall holders, the large regional companies, as well as the government. Some of the larger companies on show were Sterling Products Ltd., Banks D.I.H. and Demerara Distillers Ltd. Representing the smaller production companies were the Culture Ambassadors and a few other craft industries. There were also food and drinks bars compliments of M&M’s Snackette, along with the beverage producing giants: Guyana Banks and DDL. One of the most memorable displays for me was the company which bottles coconut water. This industry has the potential to really thrive once it is taken seriously. The amount of coconuts which go to waste all over this great land of ours can be used to generate money not only from local markets but from the region, and even internationally. There was also no shortage of entertainment for those in attendance. The entertainment for this event was taken care of by local soca star Malo, Mingles Sound Machine, Travelers’ Sound System and The New Melody Makers’ Band. These entertainers kept the crowd lively with songs from today’s hottest artistes and ensured that they did not miss a beat. There was a small contingent of the crowd who had probably already seen all the exhibits and was just taking some drinks while enjoying the music being produced for their enjoyment. This crowd seemed to be enjoying themselves very much. The Guyana National Stadium hosted people from all across Guyana and from all walks of life, including the Honorable Prime Minister, Mr. Samuel Hinds along with the Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Robert Persaud who paid keen attention to the displays. This government sanctioned event was hailed a success by all patrons as well as those whose products were on display.
By Andrew Ross