By Shannon Totaram
The Region Ten Regional Democratic Council’s Agriculture Department recently organized its first market day for 2024, providing local farmers with a platform to sell their produce.
While the event saw a reasonable turnout, vendors expressed that better advertising could have generated more support.
More than eighteen farmers participated in the market day, offering a diverse range of fresh fruits, vegetables, locally produced herbs, spices, and organic products at the Wismar Market Square.
Regina Ifill, a local farmer, shared her positive experience, stating that the day went well for her due to her reasonable prices and established reputation.
Similarly, Yvonne Bryan and Roxanne Bacchus, other local farmers, expressed satisfaction with their sales and the overall turnout.
Ruth Esbrand, the founder of ESBEES, acknowledged the modest number of shoppers but expressed gratitude for those who did make purchases.
The market day initiative was first introduced in 2019 by the RDC Agriculture Department to facilitate local farmers in selling their produce while encouraging consumers to support locally produced foods.
It is part of a broader effort by the department to support farmers, including hosting workshops, organizing an annual Agriculture Expo, and collaborating with The New Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) to enhance marketing opportunities for local farmers.