Georgetown – A robust programme of activities to mark the International the Year of People of African Descent was rolled out last evening as Guyana responded to the United Nations declaration for 2011.
On the roster of activities are a caucus of African professionals, key note addresses conferences and discussions on African contributions in Guyana, art and fashion exhibitions, African plays and drama, food fairs, visits from Africans to Guyana and exchange visits of Guyanese to Africa and a conference on African religious ceremonies among others.
President Bharrat Jagdeo who delivered the key note address at the Guyana International Conference Centre , called for the special year to be more than one of slogans.
Throughout the year we are going to debate, discuss the origins and the problems faced by people of African descent and hopefully we will emerge with a greater focus on solutions,” President Jagdeo said. He assured that Guyana’s calendar of activities will not be like some international fora that end with little or no change to pressing issues, particularly on the environment and biodiversity.
