IN 2021, the co-venturers of the Stabroek Block—ExxonMobil, Hess, and CNOOC—came together to make a significant investment in Guyana’s future. This collaboration resulted in the Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI), a 10-year, GY$20 billion commitment to support capacity-building and sustainable economic development across the country, with funds that are not cost-recoverable.

Recently, the GGI held a Stakeholder Forum, gathering beneficiaries from all 10 administrative regions. This forum showcased the broad impact of the GGI’s investments, allowing beneficiaries to share how they have shaped their lives and communities. The activity featured panel discussions on “Digital Transformation” and “Women’s Empowerment and Entrepreneurship. It also highlighted stories of progress and inspired discussions on how the GGI can further support Guyana’s growth.

GGI’s efforts are particularly notable for the diverse communities they uplift. For instance, the collaboration with Humanitarian Mission Guyana Incorporated enables primary school pupils, single parents, high school dropouts, and budding entrepreneurs in Region Six to access STEM education and workforce training, empowering them to build brighter futures.

In Region One, the GGI also backs the Guyana Marine Conservation Society’s Sustainability Enablers Project, which enhances the communities of Imbotero and Smith Creek. Residents benefit from renewable energy sources that sustain livelihoods and protect the environment by reducing land degradation and conserving natural resources.

Another standout project is the “Egg Sandwich” initiative, which is increasing poultry production in Region Nine. Led by The Consultancy Group (TCG) in partnership with the Rupununi Livestock Producers Association (RLPA), this project boosts local food production and reduces reliance on imported meat and eggs, contributing to economic diversification in the region.

The Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA) is another organisation that receives support from the GGI to help reduce the prevalence of HPV-related diseases in Guyana’s Indigenous and under-resourced communities through education and screening on HPV prevention and treatment.

Executive Director of the GRPA, Kobe Smith, said “I want to say hats off to the Greater Guyana Initiative, for them to prioritise health says a lot. Ordinarily, we’re not necessarily seeing a lot of private sector companies focusing on health. So, I’m really pleased that the Greater Guyana Initiative really sees the importance of prioritising health, particularly for vulnerable communities in regions one, seven, eight and nine.”

The GGI also supports the Region Ten Tourism Committee Incorporated, which assists tourism and hospitality service providers in establishing a standard of service and enhancing the region’s attractiveness to local and international clients and visitors.

Rawle Dundas, Vice Chairman of the Committee stated, “The major funding has gone towards establishing a foundation; that is having an office, having a staff and a vehicle because those things weren’t there. All of us were voluntary workers. But now we have someone who is paid so, it’s more activities that can be done.”

The GGI’s commitment to Guyana’s development is clear through these and many other projects. Their support reaches beyond the populous Region Four, ensuring that benefits from the oil and gas industry are felt throughout the country. Representatives from the Stabroek Block co-venturers spoke to stakeholders at the forum, reiterating their commitment to strengthening Guyana’s workforce, enhancing the competitiveness of local businesses, and laying the groundwork for lasting economic growth.

Bayney Karran, Senior Manager of Government Relations at CNOOC, emphasised that the GGI’s mission extends beyond the energy sector. “By balancing institution building with project implementation in priority areas such as agriculture, health care, business development, and education, the GGI has fostered community development beyond the oil and gas sector,” Karran noted.
Alex Mistri, Senior Vice President of Hess, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of businesses being a force for good in their communities. Mistri pledged that the GGI would continue investing in opportunities that directly benefit the citizens of Guyana.

Similarly, Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil, assured stakeholders of the company’s commitment. “We want to make a positive impact for the people who work with us and the communities where we operate, in the countries where we have the opportunity to develop natural resources,” he said.

Since its inception, the Greater Guyana Initiative has demonstrated the power of collaboration and community investment, improving the lives of thousands of Guyanese both directly and indirectly. The Stakeholder Forum reaffirmed the GGI’s dedication to Guyana, highlighting the transformative potential of partnerships that put people and progress at the forefront.