The Private Sector Commission (PSC) has noted the recent comments by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Hon. Charles Ramson Jr., concerning private-sector support for Mashramani. We share the Minister’s commitment to Guyana’s cultural heritage and welcome constructive discussions on strengthening the festival and expanding participation.

That discussion must also recognise the substantial contributions businesses make throughout the year.

The private sector’s commitment to Guyana cannot fairly be measured by its sponsorship of any single event.

The record speaks clearly. Within Mashramani itself, private sector partners supported the Panorama Steel Band Competition in both 2025 and 2026, working alongside the Ministry to sustain a cultural tradition and create opportunities for young musicians and school bands.

In education, private-sector contributions included a fully equipped, 30-computer laboratory at the Government Technical Institute and support for the distribution of 150 school-ready backpacks to children in Kimbia, Moblissa and West Ruimveldt. Members have supported school football, cricket and inter-school competitions, helping young people develop their talents.

Support for enterprise development has included National Small Business Week, practical training in financial management and marketing, student internships, and opportunities for small businesses to showcase their products. Business support organisations have also worked with international partners and Government to establish a Micro and Women Entrepreneur Learning Centre, supporting women, farmers and emerging enterprises.

Community contributions extend to Pinktober cancer-awareness activities, outreach to children’s homes and vulnerable families, and a US$50,000 partnership with UNICEF for adolescent mental health. These efforts reflect a continuing investment in the wellbeing of our people.

When emergencies arise, the private sector steps forward. Members supported the CDC-led response to the James Street fire, and relief efforts following the MV Barima tragedy. The PSC also worked alongsideGovernment and relief agencies to assist Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa.

These are examples of a much wider record of service, delivered both in partnership with Government and independently. Smaller businesses supporting neighbourhood activities and local teams are part of that record too. A contribution does not become less valuable because it happens quietly or outside a government-led programme.

Businesses must remain free to direct voluntary support according to their resources, existing commitments and community priorities. Their treatment by public authorities should never depend on whether they sponsor a particular event. Mutual respect and transparent arrangements provide the strongest foundation for lasting partnerships.

The PSC also sees an opportunity to advance a proposal made last year in its submissions for the 2026 National Budget: stronger tax incentives for charitable donations and corporate social responsibility, including tax credits for contributions to approved public-benefit organisations.

Businesses already contribute through goodwill and civic responsibility.

Clearer incentives could build on Guyana’s existing donation provisions to encourage continued support for education, culture, sport, community development and environmental initiatives. International and regional examples offer useful guidance. Canada provides charitable-donation tax credits, the UK supports giving through Gift Aid, and the US allows deductions for qualifying contributions. Within CARICOM, Trinidad and Tobago offers incentives for qualifying donations and cultural and sporting activities, while Barbados provides tax incentives under its Cultural Industries Development Act. Guyana can adapt these approaches to promote corporate social responsibility and ESG commitments through clear rules and accountability.

The PSC stands ready to work with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, the Ministry of Finance and the Guyana Revenue Authority to strengthen support for Mashramani and community investment. Early planning, clear sponsorship opportunities, transparent use of funds and fair access for small vendors can help turn that shared commitment into greater participation.

The private sector has consistently answered the call to contribute, and remain ready to do more. Our contribution is year-round. Our commitment is to Guyana. We look forward to a partnership that builds on that record and enables us to achieve more together.