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Last updated on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at 7:46 AM By Denis Chabrol
The Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI) is supporting the development of tourism in Region 10 through a tourism capacity building programme, according to a statement released over the weekend.
The initiative, which officially launched on March 20, is a partnership between GGI and the Region Ten Tourism Commission (RTTC). This initiative will bring huge benefits to the region as it promises to enhance tourism in the region through comprehensive capacity building, training, education and strategic partnerships.
The RTTC was established in 2020 to enhance the tourism product in the region. Over the years, the committee has led a number of tourism sector development initiatives in partnership with key stakeholders, including the conduct of trade exhibitions, award ceremonies, cleaning and tourist attraction signage, among others.
The GGI-RTTC partnership will be implemented over a two-year period and will provide training to approximately 300 tourism operators and service providers in important areas such as tour guides, customer service, hospitality, housekeeping, labeling and packaging, safety, and defensive driving. A mural will also be erected to symbolize the importance of tourism in Linden’s new industrial development. Other components of the initiative include strengthening the RTTC’s institutional capacity through training and the development of strategic plans and procedures manuals.
Wednesday’s event also included the opening of the project office and the unveiling of a minibus, which will be used to aid in the effective execution of the project.
In her remarks, Susan Scott, Socioeconomic Manager of ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, noted that GGI’s contributions are not limited to oil and gas. Scott said: “This initiative is expected to enhance tourism in the region through comprehensive capacity building, training and education, which is directly aligned with GGI’s mission to support regional economic development, diversified economies and meaningful livelihood opportunities for Guyanese. Consistent.” in the statement.
In his speech, Omodele George, President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), noted that the program demonstrates the power of partnerships. She urged all stakeholders to remain steadfast in their commitments while embracing opportunities for learning, innovation and growth, while reaffirming THAG’s unwavering support for the development of tourism in Guyana.
In his speech, the Mayor of Linden, His Excellency Sharma Solomon reiterated the expected impact of the project on the development of Linden. He agreed with Ms. Scott on the importance of partnerships in sustainable development, while reminding attendees that as the “heartland of Guyana”, Linden is strategically positioned to contribute meaningfully to the country’s development.
In order to make District 10 the number one tourist destination in the country and the Caribbean, District 10 Tourism Committee Chairman and Member of Parliament Devin Sears highlighted RTTC’s goal of 50% membership growth next year. In addition, the council is seeking land to build a multi-purpose tourism headquarters, providing offices for travel agents, start-ups, conferences and training rooms. “Guyana continues to be globally recognized as the world’s number one ecotourism destination, and with its economy growing exponentially, Region 10 will not be left behind,” Sears affirmed. He noted that through continued strategic partnerships, the region’s emerging tourism industry will directly contribute to Guyana’s development agenda.
Other speakers included RTTC Project Coordinator Rawle Dundas and Assistant Regional Executive Director and Regional Chairperson Representative Leola Narine. Attendees included representatives from CNOOC, the GGI Coordination Group, THAG, the Mayor and Town Council, and the District 10 Regional Democratic Council.
The Greater Guyana Project is a US$100 million, 10-year investment by Stabroek Block co-investors ExxonMobil Guyana Ltd., Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd. and CNOOC Guyana Petroleum Ltd. It aims to develop the local workforce, build human capacity, enhance education and improve healthcare, with the aim of promoting sustainable economic diversification in Guyana.
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