WTC Georgetown Marks Jubilee with Rum Heritage Showcase

The World Trade Centre Georgetown will host a special cocktail mixer next week to celebrate Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee of Independence, highlighting one of the country’s most internationally renowned industries — rum production.

The event, themed “The Story of Rum in Guyana,” is scheduled for Friday, May 29, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and will examine the evolution of the local rum and distillery industry from its origins on colonial-era sugar plantations to its emergence as a globally respected sector and a symbol of national pride.

According to the organisers, the programme will trace the history of Guyana’s rum industry before Independence and explore its transformation over the past six decades through innovation, master blending, international marketing, diversification and expansion into global markets.

The event forms part of Guyana’s celebrations marking 60 years of Independence, achieved on May 26, 1966, when the country ended more than a century of British colonial rule and became a sovereign state.

Organisers said the presentation will also examine the evolution of the rum and distillery sector as an example of the benefits of Guyanese ownership of enterprises that were once foreign-controlled.

A feature presentation will be delivered by Sharon Sue-Hang Baksh, Master Blender of Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), who is expected to discuss the craft behind the production of the company’s internationally acclaimed El Dorado Rum.

According to the release, Baksh will share some of the untold “secrets” behind the creation of El Dorado Rum, which has earned international recognition and is regarded among the world’s leading premium rum brands.

Welcome remarks will be delivered by Komal Samaroo, Executive Chairman of DDL.

Founded in 1670 as a sugar-producing colony, Guyana’s rum industry developed alongside the sugar sector and became one of the country’s most enduring manufacturing industries.

Following the consolidation of several distilleries over the years, DDL emerged as the leading producer, exporting Guyanese rum to markets across North America, Europe and Asia. Its El Dorado brand has won numerous international awards and helped establish Guyana’s reputation in the premium spirits market.

In addition to the presentations, patrons will have the opportunity to sample a variety of Guyanese rums and enjoy local cuisine while experiencing displays of Guyanese artistic creativity and craftsmanship.

The World Trade Centre Georgetown said the cocktail mixer promises to be “an enjoyable and uniquely Guyanese way to spend a Friday evening while celebrating our Nation’s Diamond Jubilee of Independence.”

The event is expected to attract members of the business community, diplomats, cultural stakeholders and rum enthusiasts interested in Guyana’s history and achievements in the distillery sector.

Persons seeking additional information can contact Fonseca Peters through the World Trade Centre Georgetown.