Tourism mural unveiled at Moleson Creek, Berbice

A tourism mural was unveiled at the Canawaima Ferry Terminal at Moleson Creek, Berbice, Region Six on Tuesday, in observance of World Tourism Day by the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA).

It was noted that the vibrant and colourful mural signifies all that Guyana has to offer to its people and visitors.

As such, Kaieteur Falls, the Umana Yana, St George’s Cathedral, the National Flags of Guyana and Suriname, and the Victoria Regia Lily are some of the elements of the mural.

It was revealed that World Tourism Day was celebrated under the theme ‘Rethinking Tourism’.  This underscores tourism as an integral pillar of growth and development.

Further, the addition and integration of the mural at the ferry port will significantly contribute to the promotion of long-term economic growth, the development and maintenance of cultural identity, and developing a sense of belonging within the community.

It was disclosed that GTA has been working continuously to develop more tourism products in every region to widen the tourism market, and providing the necessary training to build the capacity of stakeholders, which will help them to evolve with the industry.

Mayor of Corriverton, Winston Roberts commended the Tourism Ministry for the mural as a great initiative to showcase Corriverton, “I’m happy that the Ministry of Tourism in this initiative to put a signboard up in this area. So, that the tourists can know what Guyana looks like. I must say that I’m very happy at this point of time to know that, Upper Corentyne, it will enhance the beauty of the area now. And more so, when they get into the town of Corriverton,” Mayor Roberts said.

Meanwhile, Training and Licensing Manager at the GTA, Tamika Inglis pointed out that the mural is a representation of the flora, fauna, national animals, and historical landmarks, “Persons travelling between Guyana and Suriname can now admire this picture and use it as a selfie station to take beautiful pictures. This, I believe, will help to promote Guyana and its beauty,” Inglis explained.

The GTA Manager noted that for the past two years, tourism was on a standstill due to the COVID-19 pandemic which affected all sectors.

She stressed that we must review the way we view tourism and understand how fragile the market can be when faced with unforeseen challenges such as COVID-19 and other issues.

“The impact tourism has on our economy especially within the region is enough reasons for us to put necessary measures in place to safeguard the livelihood of our tourism stakeholders, especially persons working within the sector. Finding more unique ways to capture the tourism market as well as promoting domestic tourism is a step in the right direction,” she reiterated.

Inglis pointed out that the progress made must be commended, in relation to showcasing Guyana as an ideal destination for eco and sport tourism.

The artist, Colin Nedd said that the painting represents tourism in Guyana since it depicts culture, heritage, flora, fauna, and wildlife. Nedd provided details about the background of the mural and what each element represents. This is the first tourism mural he has painted.

He described his artistic style as realism and symbolism. “I’m glad to represent the Tourism Ministry at this level. I did a lot of other works that people may recognise in Guyana like, for instance, the paintings in the zoo,” Nedd noted.

Meanwhile, Senior Revenue Clerk at the Canawaima Ferry Service, Vinatta Persaud extended gratitude to the Tourism Ministry for providing the ferry service with the beautiful mural. She noted that the mural will beautify the port and educate tourists about Guyana’s diverse culture.

The government gave tourism top priority as a sector for sustainable development and as one with enormous potential to advance the nation.