— President Ali says project will boost trade, tourism and hinterland development

BIDS will soon be opened for the construction, financing, ownership and management of a new regional airport in Lethem, a major government-backed investment aimed at strengthening trade, tourism and cross-border connectivity with Brazil.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali made the announcement during his address at the Canada-Guyana Chamber of Commerce Maple Leaf Gala, where he outlined the administration’s broader plan to transform Guyana’s interior into a hub for agricultural and commercial expansion.

“In the coming weeks we’re going to have an expression of interest for the new regional airport in Lethem and that airport will be supported by 2,000 hectares of development, especially in agro products,” Dr. Ali said.

He explained that the project will be structured to attract both domestic and diaspora investment.

“We’re going to go out for an expression of interest for building, financing, ownership and management of that facility,” the President stated.

Dr. Ali stated that the new Lethem facility will form part of a series of major infrastructure and industrial projects currently under review.

The President added that the Government intends to give Guyanese and the diaspora the first call on investment in such projects.

“We’re going to give each one of you and your companies the first call on investment. We’re not only going to give you that, we’re going to have a Government-backed guaranteed return on your investment,” President Ali explained.

The Airport, he said, will be a cornerstone of Guyana’s strategy to diversify beyond oil and strengthen economic links across the hinterland and with neighbouring Brazil.

The project is expected to enhance access for the tourism and agro-processing sectors, aligning with the government’s efforts to advertise new tourism investment opportunities.

Dr Ali urged private sector leaders, including those in the diaspora, to take advantage of the growing pipeline of infrastructure and energy projects.

“These are real opportunities coming your way,” he said.