–Urges shift beyond remittances to co-investment, skills transfer, deeper collaboration as Republic Anniversary observed in New York
GUYANA’S transformation story is incomplete without its diaspora and the relationship must move beyond remittances to co-investment partnerships, Ambassador Michael Brotherson declared on Sunday as he addressed an interfaith service and brunch reception in Brooklyn, New York, to mark the country’s 56th Republic Anniversary.
Delivering remarks at St Gabriel’s Episcopal Church, Brotherson, who is the Consul General of Guyana to New York,told members of the Guyanese diaspora that the government is actively positioning them as co-investors and collaborators in the nation’s next phase of development, signalling a shift from symbolic ties to structured engagement in Guyana’s expanding economy.
He said the anniversary was not only a moment of reflection on Guyana’s attainment of republican status on February 23, 1970, but also an opportunity to assess the country’s rapid progress and the evolving role of Guyanese abroad in sustaining that momentum.
“Today, however, the relationship between Guyana and its Diaspora is evolving. It is no longer defined solely by sentimental ties or remittances. Instead, it is now rooted in partnership,” Brotherson said, while extending greetings from President, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali and the Government and people of Guyana.
Addressing a gathering that included religious leaders, diaspora representatives, Caribbean consular officials and members of the media, the Ambassador underscored that people remain at the centre of Guyana’s development, aligning with the government’s 2026 Budget philosophy that development must be by the people and for the people.
He pointed to the $1.558 trillion national budget as evidence of a deliberate strategy to translate economic growth into tangible improvements in citizens’ lives, highlighting ongoing investments in education, healthcare, housing, water access, and infrastructure.
According to Brotherson, new schools, expanded technical and vocational training, scholarships, and enhanced university and professional development support are being rolled out to equip young Guyanese with globally competitive skills, while encouraging them to contribute meaningfully at home.
He also referenced the construction of new regional hospitals and the upgrading of existing health facilities, noting that the aim is to ensure that families can access quality and specialised medical care locally without having to seek treatment overseas.
On the social-development front, he said expanded housing programmes, improved water access, and targeted support for vulnerable groups are ensuring that the benefits of growth are inclusive and people-focused. Meanwhile, major infrastructural and energy initiatives, including the gas-to-energy project and road-network expansion, are laying the groundwork for long-term prosperity and investment.
“These investments are not just projects, they are opportunities for diaspora partnerships, knowledge exchange, and co-creation of lasting impact,” he said, emphasising that the government stands ready to co-invest with diaspora members who are prepared to return home to build, innovate, and contribute their expertise and capital.
Brotherson reminded attendees that the Guyanese diaspora has long been a pillar of national strength, sustaining families and communities through remittances, professional expertise, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and cultural preservation. He noted that Guyanese abroad have distinguished themselves across diverse fields including film, academia, athletics, politics, medicine, and the culinary arts, thereby raising Guyana’s profile globally.
He, however, urged that the diaspora’s role must now expand to ensure that Guyana’s transformation remains sustainable and globally competitive. “Guyana is not simply inviting you to observe its transformation from afar, we are inviting you to help shape it,” he said.
Drawing on the local adage “One, one dutty build dam,” Brotherson said the country’s progress has been built step by step through collective effort by citizens at home and abroad, adding that the work of nation-building is ongoing.
He also called on members of the diaspora to remain united in their advocacy for Guyana, cautioning against divisiveness and urging that the Guyanese spirit of respect, care, and temperance guide interactions, particularly in the age of digital communication.
“As we commemorate 56 years as a republic, let us recommit ourselves to unity for purpose. Let us strengthen the bridge between homeland and diaspora. Let us invest not only in projects, but [also] in people,” he said.
The event formed part of commemorative activities held in New York to mark Guyana’s Republic Anniversary, celebrating the country’s progress while reinforcing the critical role of its global diaspora in shaping the nation’s future trajectory.
