THOUSANDS of people who rely on social support in Guyana are expected to benefit from upgraded technology, as the government moves to buy new Information Technology (IT) infrastructure.
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security is seeking suppliers to provide systems aimed at improving the delivery and nationwide management of social services.
The upgrade is designed to streamline operations, cut delays, and improve access to services for women, children, older people, and people with disabilities.
The investment forms part of a wider effort to modernise Guyana’s social-protection system through the ‘Support to Safety Net and Gender Empowerment in Guyana’ initiative, funded by the Inter-American Development Bank with support from the Government of Canada.
In June 2025, the IDB approved a US$350 million policy-based loan to Guyana aimed at strengthening Guyana’s social safety net and expanding services for vulnerable populations.
The initiative supports programmes focused on digital transformation, women’s economic empowerment, assistance for persons with disabilities, and support services for survivors of gender-based violence and trafficking.
The ministry has invited bids for the network hardware. According to the procurement notice, the contract will be awarded through national competitive bidding in accordance with IDB policies.
Bids must be submitted to the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board by June 23, 2026.
The broader social-protection initiative has already supported several programmes across Guyana, including the expansion of electronic pension payments for senior citizens, and increased public assistance for persons with disabilities.
In Budget 2026, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security received an allocation of $78.3 billion, with a significant portion directed towards social assistance and empowerment programmes. [DPI]