The Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce said it has thrown its full support behind the hosting of ‘Wakenaam Nite’ set for August.
According to the Government Information Agency (GINA) this is the first activity stemming from collaborations between the ministry and entertainers to market and promote tourism. The Wakenaam Nite Committee is collaborating with the ministry to host the fete.
Prashad said his ministry will work with the private sector and NGOs to market events that promote Guyana as such efforts have proven successful with major events now held in Lethem, Bartica, Rockstone, Berbice and Moruca. The ministry will collaborate with a number of committees to host the events throughout the year aimed at promoting domestic tourism and providing wholesome entertainment for locals and visitors. GINA said Prashad appealed to the business committee to support ‘Wakenaam Nite’ as he believes it has the potential to boost the island’s development. He also offered the ministry’s full technical and financial support. Prashad said too the ancillary staff at the Guyana Tourism Authority and the National Exhibition Centre will be providing technical assistance.
The roster for the fete includes a mini-expo, a beauty pageant, singing and dancing. Additionally, on the first Monday of August a grand “get-together” will be held at the neighbouring Hamburg Beach on Tiger Island which attracts thousands.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the Committee Sheik Ahmad said they will be using the ‘bed and breakfast’ facility to accommodate visitors. Also transportation will be provided by a speedboat service that was recently introduced from Parika to Wakenaam. The first ‘Wakenaam Nite’ was hosted in August 2008.