Linden to showcase economic potential, local talent as Town Week kicks off

By Naomi Marshall

For the first time since 2019 the Linden Town Week (LTW) is back in full swing with a 13-day-calendar of activities of fun and reflection for thousands of persons to experience and enjoy.

The opening ceremony for LTW, which runs from April 23 to May 5, was held on Sunday evening at the Linden/Georgetown Bus park under the theme, ‘Together We Build.’

This year marks the 25th edition of LTW, which is being spearheaded by the Linden Mayor and Town Council (LMTC), and Linden’s 52nd anniversary as a town.

The opening ceremony commenced with a military parade consisting of members from the joint services, who marched through Republic Avenue.

Delivering brief remarks was Chairman of Region 10, Deron Adams, who stated that the exponential growth of LTW is testimony to the maturation of Linden.

Adams highlighted that the town’s agriculture and agro-processing sector will be on showcase during the festivities.

“Our agriculture and agro-processing sector will be on show during this Linden Town Week, as Linden puts on display produce and products that we would all be proud to claim as our own and I dare say would be hard pressed to pass on the shelves of our stores and in our markets,” he said.

Adams added that the Regional Democratic Council, Region 10 is actively supporting the region’s farmers to maximise on the opportunities offered during the festivities.

Meanwhile the Mayor of Linden, Waneka Arrindell, in her remarks said that it is time focus is placed on the transformation of Linden by all leaders.

“I implore all of our leaders, it is time to place focus on our development, it is time to place focus on Linden. We are open, we are ready for investment with large landmasses; navigable rivers; low water and utility bills; the largest tourism potential this country has seen in decades, rich soil for bauxite that has stood the test of times. It is our time Linden to let the world know that we are ready to rebuild,” Arrindell remarked.

Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, in a short address, called on Lindeners to assess the opportunities that exist within the town, and how those prospects will be used to ensure progress happens in the future.  

Last evening saw various local groups and artists entertaining the audience with their songs, dances and poetry.

Activities scheduled for today, day three of LTW include the honouring of Linden’s former Mayor, Hugh Harris; the LTW health fair; Under the Open Heaven, an event Christians can enjoy featuring Samuel Medas, and the semifinals of the town’s karaoke competition.

Highly anticipated fete events that will be hosted in this week include the ‘Real All Black’, ‘Is Duh Big Uncle Fuh Me’, ‘Yellow Exclusive’, ‘Big, Bold, and Beautiful’, ‘Soca and Fitness’, ‘Car Sound Off’, ‘Corks and Canvas’, and ‘Reggae by the river’.

Also present at the opening ceremony was Leader of the Opposition, Aubrey Norton; Members of Parliament, Jermaine Figueira and Devin Sears; Deputy Mayor of Linden, Wainwright Bethune; Mayor of Bartica, Gifford Marshall, and Mayor of New Amsterdam, Wainwright McIntosh.