By Telesha Ramnarine
Three years ago, when the government embarked on rip rap works at Okum/Retrieve on Leguan Island in the Essequibo River, few could have predicted the transformation that would unfold. What started as a modest project focused on river defense has given rise to a breathtaking beach, now delighting both residents and tourists.
The rip rap project, undertaken in phases, initially aimed to bolster the river’s defenses and support the solar farm situated behind the beach. But as the work progressed, it became clear that a hidden gem was emerging—a potential tourist hotspot.
Regional Chairman Sheik Inshan Ayube quickly recognized the opportunity and spearheaded the creation of a committee to enhance the site, affectionately dubbed ‘Canefield Beach’ by locals.
“The beach was always there; it just was a clump of bushes. But with the Regional Chairman’s input and the Ministry of Public Works, they cleared the shrubs under the tree. So we left the trees but cleared the bushes under them,” said Fajina Khan, a committee member, sharing the beach’s transformation story.
What sets Canefield Beach apart is its unique construction. “Instead of using modern stuff to build the dam, they used sand so we ended up with a beach at the top and a river at the bottom. We have the beach above the rip rap and then you still have a beach and water at the bottom. So at no point in time, high tide affects you. Even if water comes in very high, you can still be at the beach hanging out,” Khan explained.
Since its recent makeover, Canefield Beach has become a buzzing hotspot. Just last Sunday, a visiting foreigner was so taken with the beach’s charm that he donated 10 solar lights on the spot for installation.
Plans are already underway to enhance the beach further, with proposals for a parking lot, shower facilities, and possibly even a hotel. “We will be planting more trees, making steps to go to the river. It’s an ideal place for investors. We are moving every day on how we will develop it and we are looking to see what investment the President wants to make there,” Ayube told the News Room.
This Friday, Khan is organizing an evening gathering with the island’s women to showcase the beach’s allure at night. “It can be used day and night because tide doesn’t affect us; activities can be held at any point in time. We are moving at a pace because we realized this is something big for Leguan and we have to capture it. The water is not polluted; no bottles in the sand,” she said.
Khan believes the beach’s success could shift Leguan’s economic focus from traditional agriculture to tourism. “If we nip it in the bud and it kicks off, it would move away from Leguan’s traditional means of income like rice farming and cattle farming and cash crops. It provides a different avenue for the residents to earn money,” Khan noted.
Amazing ! Adding more beauty to an already beautiful country! Hats off to all those who had the foresight to make the transformation!!