INTERNATIONAL attention on the country is not accidental as Guyana celebrates the 60th anniversary of its independence.

For many years, Guyana was regarded as a small developing country usually characterised by problems of economic hardship, migration and underdevelopment. But the story has changed dramatically today. Now the country is at the heart of global debate on economic transformation, energy wealth, sustainable development and regional leadership.

Recent reflections by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative Katy Thompson and United Nations Volunteers Subregional Advisor Ceaser Guedes highlight an important truth: Guyana is at a historic crossroads.

Guyana has entered, there is no doubt, what Thompson aptly describes as a “unprecedented moment in history.”

Thanks to the booming oil and gas industry, the country is enjoying rapid economic growth that is bringing sweeping changes to all sectors. As infrastructural projects expand, investment opportunities multiply, and Guyana attracts the attention of governments, investors and international agencies around the globe.

But while the economic numbers tell a story, the government is doing all within its power to enhance the lives of average Guyanese. That is the real challenge of Guyana at 60.

The remarks by the United Nations representatives highlight not just optimism, but also the importance of responsible stewardship. Guyana’s transition from developing country to potential high-income country is rare and historic.

Many countries blessed with natural resources have not been able to convert wealth into sustainable national development. Huge economic gains notwithstanding, others have suffered from inequality, corruption, environmental degradation and social division. Guyana has to be alert for such traps.

This makes the UNDP’s focus on sustainable development and democratic governance apposite and necessary. Economic growth is not the measure of national success.

Development also needs to mean stronger institutions; transparent governance; environmental protection; quality healthcare; modern education; safer communities and equal opportunities for all citizens, no matter where they live or where they come from.

The transformation of the country must not be confined to the coastland or major urban centres.

Development gains are benefiting hinterland communities, farmers, fisherfolk, small businesses, youth and vulnerable groups.

Freedom, after all, was never just political sovereignty. It was about creating a society with dignity, opportunity and national pride for citizens.

Just as important, is the acknowledgment that Guyana’s engagement with international organisations is evolving. But as Thompson and Guedes both pointed out, the UN itself needs to change to be responsive to a rapidly changing Guyana.

The era of simple development assistance is ending, to be replaced by a more sophisticated partnership based on technical expertise, sustainability and governance and institutional strengthening.

This is well captured in Guedes’ description of the need for a “UN 2.0” for a “Guyana 2.0.”

Today’s Guyana is not the Guyana of the early 90s. It is a country with rising influence, growing economic power and rising expectations from its people.

But such transformation also exerts pressures,  on infrastructure, social services, public accountability and national unity.

That is why the next chapter of Guyana’s development must be driven not just by excitement, but by vision, discipline and inclusiveness.

As Guyanese celebrate 60 years of independence there is certainly much to be proud of. The country has faced enormous challenges, but has emerged stronger, more confident and more visible on the world stage. Guyana is being recognised on the global stage, with international recognition from organisations such as the United Nations.

But anniversaries should be not only times for celebration, but times for reflection.

What is happening now in Guyana is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a nation that future generations will be proud of.

How that opportunity translates into a lasting success story will depend on the choices we make today, by political leaders, institutions, businesses and citizens alike.

The future of Guyana is looking brighter than ever. The challenge now is to ensure that this progress is sustainable, equitable and truly national.

Guyana is 60. It’s not the end of a journey, but the start of its most important chapter yet.