Why should the private sector pay for an imitation festival?

Oct 25, 2026 Features / Columnists, Peeping Tom

(Kaieteur News) – Every year, as Mashramani approaches a familiar appeal goes out to corporate Guyana to open its wallets, sponsor the festivities and demonstrate its commitment to national culture. The appeal is usually accompanied by expressions of disappointment that businesses have not embraced Mashramani with the enthusiasm expected of them.

It is not that our businessmen are heartless or care less about national festivals. Perhaps, after examining what is being offered, they have concluded that there are more profitable ways of disposing of their money. Before we accuse corporate Guyana of not being supportive enough of Mashramani, we might consider whether the festival has an identity problem.