Georgetown,Guyana (May 23,2016)-The book, “Undiscovered Guyana”, and short video series, were launched on May 22, 2016, to mark International day of Biodiversity in Guyana at Herdmanston Lodge. The event, which was organized by the Ministry of Natural Resources and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), was well attended and included Ministers of Government, members of the Diplomatic Corps, special invitees and representatives of organizations that are working to protect and preserve Guyana’s rich biodiversity.
The idea to develop the book and videos had its genesis in a challenge to Country Manager of the World Wildlife Fund, Ms. Aeisha Williams by H.E David Arthur Granger for the organization to do some more to educate Guyanese about the rich and bountiful biodiversity that is to be found in Guyana. The challenge was taken on board and “Undiscovered Guyana” became a reality. The images for the book and short videos were captured and produced by photographer Pete Oxford and does not disappoint as it gives a glimpse of the stunning beauty and variety of Guyana’s rich biodiversity, peoples and natural resources. Describing the contents of the book in his remarks, Minister of Natural Resources, Honourable Raphael Trotman noted that “It truly reflects the complete path upon which our new Guyana is embarking – A path of sustainable use of our resources, in keeping with our commitment to a green economy, the Paris climate change agreement which H.E signed in April of this year, and our intended Nationally Determined Contributions which reflected a true commitment of Guyanese to do much better for our children and theirs to come”. Remarks were also made by Ms. Aeisha Williams and author and producer Mr. Pete Oxford who shared an exciting presentation of pictures that showcased a Guyana many have not yet experienced. It will be used primarily as a branding tool to build interest in Guyana as a tourism destination as well as to showcase the nation to Guyanese locally and abroad in an effort to ignite and renew a deeper sense of patriotism and appreciation of our national patrimony.
The event concluded with a presentation of several copies of the book to special guests including Minister of Indigenous Peoples Affairs, Honourable Sidney Allicock, and representatives of Caribbean Youth Environment Network (CYEN) and University of Guyana Environmental Club, Eco Trust among others.
A vote of thanks was given by Commissioner Damian Fernandes of the Protected Areas Commission who thanked Pete Oxford for showing Guyana how beautiful she was.
Copies of the book “Undiscovered Guyana” can be obtained from the office of the Protected Areas Commission in Thomas Lands, Georgetown at a cost of USD50. The PAC can be reached on tel# 227-1888
The Ministry of Natural Resources and the WWF extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who joined in celebrating International Day of Biodiversity across Guyana and looks forward to the continued support of its efforts to preserve and protect Guyana’s natural wealth.
