Rodrigues woos investors to Rupununi

Last Updated on Monday, 15 December 2025, 20:05 by Writer

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues is encouraging Guyanese investors to tap into opportunities in Region Nine (Upper Takatu-Upper Essequibo) as work continues on the construction of the Linden-Lethem Road and plans are afoot to build a modern airport there.

She said the road, which would also yield potential benefits for Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), would provide direct access to a major economic zone in Brazil.

“Guyanese businesses should not wait until the road is complete to position themselves. Now is the time to make strategic decisions about your presence, your services and your role in that region,” she told the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (GCCI) recently-held annual awards ceremony.

Ms Rodrigues also alluded to plans to build a “major international airport” in Lethem.

With the contract already having been awarded, the minister said construction would begin in 2026. “If you are not there, you’re almost late already,” she remarked.

Specifically in tourism, she said the Rupununi is one of ten places that te government has identified for the construction of eco-lodges. “These are potential opportunities for business expansion through engagement and partnership with local communities and I will welcome seeing members of the GCCI submit proposals for these initiatives,” she said.

Ms Rodrigues said Guyana is projected to record a 20 percent increase in the number of visitors over last year’s figure.

She said the Caribbean Tourism Organisation has already confirmed that Guyana has achieved the “highest percentage increase” in the region from January to July, 2025.