ACCLAIMED actor and philanthropist Idris Elba has praised Guyana’s environmental leadership in a heartfelt written message delivered to the inaugural Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit, being held this week in Georgetown.

Elba’s message, penned on behalf of his organisation, the Akuna Group, was read to an audience of world leaders and delegates by Guyanese climate economist Pradeepa Bholanath.
“I have long wished to visit Guyana. Many of my dearest friends growing up were the sons and daughters of Guyanese families, and I grew up listening to vivid stories of your magnificent forests, your powerful rivers, and the deep resilience and warmth of your people,” Elba wrote.

He went on to stress the critical role of biodiversity in global development, adding, “Biodiversity must not be sacrificed in the name of development. It is, in fact, the very foundation upon which we must build a more equitable, more prosperous and a more sustainable future.”

Elba highlighted Guyana as a model for the world, commending its ability to balance conservation with progress. “Guyana is providing that environmental stewardship and economic progress, and they are not mutually exclusive. You are living proof that it is possible to protect the planet while uplifting communities,” he added.

The Global Biodiversity Alliance Summit brought together policymakers, scientists, and activists from around the world to promote unified action on biodiversity preservation in the face of mounting climate challenges.