FELLOW Guyanese — at home and abroad I have recently returned from Guyana after attending the funeral of my father-in-law. This trip was one of mixed emotions. On one hand the sadness of having to say farewell to a loved one is never easy, but on the other hand, I found joy in what I saw in Guyana.

This was my first trip back home in ten years, and I am truly impressed by the progress I have seen and experienced. Arriving at the Cheddi Jagan Airport, which was air-conditioned, I experienced the polite and professional manner of both the Immigration and Customs officers. The feeling of foreboding and apprehension was non existent.

Driving into Georgetown along the East Bank, I was in awe of the cleanliness and the vast improvements and additions of the housing areas. The newly established housing areas with their gated communities lend itself to that of a North American setting. The upkeep and improvements of the roads on both the East Bank and East Coast were a pleasant surprise. The Industries that seem to be everywhere, tells of the confidence and progress among Guyanese in their new found country.

The upkeep of our Landmark buildings throughout Georgetown is a true testament of the Government’s commitment to all Guyanese and their culture. The faces of despair were not evident as in past times.

When I last visited, there seemed to be no order to the Society then, the non working traffic lights, the failure of motorists and pedestrians alike to confirm to the laws were apparent, the traffic police who seemed to look the other way. Not so now, there is an obvious discipline that exists. My travels to the country side were limited but I liked what I saw. The cleanliness of our city is to be noted. The road to Brazil, the construction of the Berbice Bridge and the upcoming Hydro Projects are all realities, and a symbol of true progress.

Having been fortunate to visit many a Caribbean country, I can say with confidence that Guyana does not resemble a “ Third World ’’ country. It is not evident. The Resorts were a treat, and well maintained.

While, Guyana still has a rocky mountain to climb, (28 years of crime and corruption does not end overnight, until all the roots have been dug out and replanted with fresh saplings) and has it’s internal issues, it is not evident to the eye. The saying “ a picture is worth a thousand words’’ is a measure of a country that was once written off by many of us living abroad. There seems to be only what one direction that Guyana is headed…the right direction.

Kudos to you, Mr. President and your staff. A Championship is never won, unless all the players play as a team, and it is evident that your young team is in for the long haul.
Guyana is on the way to its first championship!
AHMAD SATTAUR
New York