GCCI President Champions Women in Agro-Processing, Microenterprise Growth
By Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News
GEORGETOWN, GUYANA – With women playing an increasingly vital role in agriculture, especially in agro-processing, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) is working alongside stakeholders to amplify the impact of women-led microenterprises.
In an exclusive interview with HGP Nightly News, Kati Smith, the first female president of GCCI, revealed the Chamber’s latest initiatives aimed at equipping women in agro-processing with the tools they need to thrive.
“We are now seeing a lot of policies and areas being shaped out for women in agro-processing,” said Smith. “GCCI is setting up a microenterprise support program for women, with training in standards, marketing, branding, packaging, and more.”
Women Leading the Agricultural Shift
Smith acknowledged that Guyana is experiencing rapid progress in agriculture and agro-processing, with women increasingly at the helm. These women are not only generating income but also contributing to food security and value-added production, creating a ripple effect in both rural and urban economies.
Support Expands to Construction Sector
Smith, also a waterproofing specialist and active member of the business consortium, praised the expanding role of small businesses in construction projects—an area once dominated solely by large firms.
“We’ve seen a shift. A lot of small businesses are now executing projects that were once exclusive to large construction firms,” she explained, crediting recent government-private sector collaboration for the progress.
Private Sector Applauds Policy Support
She expressed deep gratitude to policymakers who have worked in tandem with the Chamber to ensure that microenterprises—especially those led by women—receive equitable opportunities.
“Look who’s behind this progress—it’s the small businesses. And finally, we’re getting the opportunity to lead,” Smith said.
Having previously served as Senior Vice President, Secretary, and Chairperson of GCCI’s Petroleum Committee and Human Resource Management & Capacity Building Committee, Smith brings seasoned leadership to these efforts.
