— highlights transformative projects at ECCI Trade Expo

PRIME Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips has reaffirmed that Essequibo is well-positioned for major opportunities across all sectors, as government-led initiatives continue to drive modernisation and growth.

Speaking at the Essequibo Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ECCI) Trade Expo on October 25, the Prime Minister said the four-lane highway for Essequibo will be a transformative project, reducing travel time, improving access to markets and services and stimulating business and residential expansion.

He also highlighted ongoing energy developments, including solar farms at Onderneeming and Charity with a combined capacity of 8 megawatts, which will strengthen the region’s power supply and are expected to reduce electricity costs.

Lower energy expenses, he noted, will benefit both residents and entrepreneurs while encouraging industrial growth.

Prime Minister Phillips emphasised the government’s focus on inclusive development, pointing to training programmes for women entrepreneurs and skills-development initiatives aimed at preparing Essequibians for new economic opportunities.

He announced that the removal of tuition fees for tertiary education and free scholarships for Essequibo students will help build a more skilled workforce, while the new nursing training facility will expand healthcare capacity and employment prospects in the region.

From 2026 to 2031, he said, economic confidence is expected to remain strong, supported by government initiatives such as zero-interest micro-loans and business-training programmes designed to help small and medium-size enterprises grow sustainably.

The Prime Minister also pointed to national development efforts in housing, energy and agriculture, which he said will have a ripple effect, expanding access to essential services and making Region Two more attractive to investors.

“Essequibo is playing a vital role in Guyana’s national development agenda,” Prime Minister Phillips stated.

“With the four-lane road project, renewable energy expansion and new nursing school, the region is poised for greatness and [is] ready to attract new investments.”

He urged the business community to embrace technology and innovation to enhance competitiveness and long-term sustainability.