In the heart of Blairmont, a farming village nestled along Guyana’s agriculturally-rich West Coast Berbice, a quiet transformation has taken root—one that exemplifies the power of knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and inclusive market systems.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) is proud to spotlight the extraordinary journey of Mr. Ameer Rahim, a young farmer whose story reflects the true potential of Guyana’s agriculture sector when supported by robust institutional partnerships and access to key services.
Mr. Rahim’s journey began like that of many smallholder farmers—marked by passion, perseverance, and persistent challenges. Market instability, limited access to inputs, and post-harvest losses were constant hurdles, but all that began to change with a single invitation to an ‘Access to Services Session’ in Blairmont—an initiative that brought together farmers, service providers, government agencies, and business enablers under one roof.
There, Mr. Rahim connected with the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (New GMC), unlocking access to regional agro-processing facilities. For the first time, he envisioned a path beyond selling raw produce. With the Small Business Bureau (SBB) offering grant support, mentorship, and registration guidance, and Green Agro Supplies and Services providing innovative micronutrient solutions that boosted his yields, he transitioned from farmer to agro-entrepreneur.
He launched ‘Country Side Flavours’—a proudly local brand producing pepper sauces, moringa blends, coconut oil, and more. His products, steeped in the rich heritage of Berbice, quickly gained visibility at major national events such as the Berbice Expo and Christmas Village.
In 2024, Ameer’s efforts were recognised at the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce and Small Business Bureau’s Annual Awards, where he was honored for his entrepreneurial spirit and community impact. By 2025, he was sharing his story at the Farmer-to-Business Symposium at Splashmin’s Resort, inspiring others with a simple yet profound message—“I didn’t start with a big business plan. I started with a farm, a dream, and the decision to show up. Showing up changed everything.”
Today, Country Side Flavours employs three part-time workers and is expanding into dehydrated snacks and seasoning blends. Mr. Rahim continues to mentor fellow farmers, driving rural innovation and economic resilience.
A Story of Systemic Change
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry commends Mr. Ameer Rahim’s transformation as a shining example of what can be achieved through a market-systems approach—where institutions work hand-in-hand to empower small businesses and build inclusive growth from the ground up.
This is more than just a success story—it’s a blueprint for sustainable development in Guyana’s agriculture sector. It underscores the vital importance of accessible services, connected ecosystems, and the courage of one farmer who dared to dream.
As Country Side Flavours continues to grow, we are reminded that change begins with connection, and sometimes, it all starts with simply showing up
