Guyana has become “a land of renewed hope and opportunity,” Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha said on Sunday evening, noting that Guyanese abroad are now returning home to contribute to the country’s development.
Mustapha made the remarks while delivering the feature address at a flag-raising ceremony at State House in New Amsterdam, where Region Six joined national celebrations marking Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary.
He said the Government is working to create opportunities for all citizens, particularly young people. “We are building a country where young people can dream boldly, where families can prosper, and where opportunity is no longer reserved for a few, but extended to all,” he said.
Highlighting Region Six’s economic importance, Mustapha pointed to its role in agriculture and industry, describing it as a key driver of national development.
“The story of Guyana cannot be told without Region Six and Berbice,” he said, citing sugarcane production at Albion, Rose Hall and Skeldon, rice cultivation in Black Bush Polder, and the contribution of fishing communities along the Corentyne coast, alongside livestock farmers, agro-processors and entrepreneurs.
He said the government had invested heavily in reviving and modernising the sugar industry, including the reopening of the Rose Hall Estate.
“The reopening of the Rose Hall Estate was not simply about reopening a factory. It was about restoring livelihoods, dignity and confidence to an entire community,” Mustapha said.
He added that billions of dollars continued to be invested in modernising sugar production, improving agricultural infrastructure and supporting workers and farmers across the region.
Mustapha also said Guyana was playing an increasing role in regional food security, noting that CARICOM was looking to Georgetown for leadership in strengthening agricultural sustainability.
The Independence Anniversary event formed part of nationwide celebrations marking 60 years since Guyana gained Independence.
