Dear Editor,
Much has been said in various media recently about the African Business Roundtable and some of its members, both former and current and so perhaps a reintroduction of the ABR is necessary to encourage all Guyanese to support our efforts.
The African Business Roundtable is a grouping of Afro-Guyanese business men and women who are committed to achieving ‘fair and equitable opportunities and treatment in an operational environment for businesses of Guyanese of African descent, through the use of innovative programmes and policies seeking to promote the sustainable economic and social development of Guyana’, as our vision statement spells out. This organization was created to promote the sustainable economic and social development of Guyana by uplifting the economic profile and status of business enterprises in the country and by increasing the participation (start a business) and contribution (grow a business) of business enterprises owned and operated by Guyanese of African descent.
We aim to serve as an organized conduit to Government and other stakeholders in society, to advocate and obtain support for policies and programmes that help to increase the participation and contribution of business enterprises of Guyanese of African descent. Additionally, we work towards building links and alliances with international business and intergovernmental organizations, to support the growth and sustainable development of Guyanese businesses, particularly those owned and operated by Guyanese of African descent.
Our efforts are also directed towards assisting businesses to assess risk and create or facilitate the creation of facilities or mechanisms that would help them to limit loss or damage from avoidable risks that could arise in the course of business. All businesses owned by Guyanese of African descent are therefore urged to join our efforts by applying for membership at our Lot 9 Thomas Lands, Georgetown head office, or give us a call on telephone number 227-7868.
As Guyanese, we believe that the resources of this country should be equally available to all Guyanese, regardless of any social, spiritual or economic description that could be attached to them. We are convinced that as a business chamber representative of the interests of Guyanese of African descent, we can network and support each other as we seek to participate positively and meaningfully in the building of the Guyanese economy. This vision accords with our mission, which speaks to the creation of strong families and villages which can support our various businesses as well. The ABR is therefore geared towards meeting the objectives of National Development through the implementation of business initiatives that will help to grow the Guyanese economy using a variety of strategies, including the development of business enterprises of all levels, owned and operated by Guyanese of African descent.
It is against this backdrop that we wish to reiterate that the African Business Roundtable will continue to represent any legitimate business interest of its members, inclusive of all business sectors, be it construction, aviation, telecommunication, agricultural or oil and gas among others. Guyana belongs to all Guyanese and the ABR supports all Guyanese who endeavour to participate in our country’s economic development, but especially the efforts of our members.
Yours faithfully,
Leon Roberts
Business Development and Liaison Officer
African Business Roundtable
