THE first concrete has been poured for the multi-billion-dollar Parika Modern Port Facility and Waterfront Development project, signalling the start of construction on a major initiative that is expected to transform the Essequibo gateway into a hub for regional trade, tourism and transportation.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced the milestone on Saturday, sharing photographs of the works.
The project forms part of a wider vision to modernise the Parika waterfront, and create an international-standard port facility capable of supporting cargo operations, cruise tourism, and luxury marine travel.
Earlier this year, Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill said the development would unlock significant economic opportunities while positioning Parika as a key centre for regional trade and waterfront activities.
The upgraded terminal is expected to facilitate exports to Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states, creating direct access to new markets for local farmers and producers.
“It is from the Parika Terminal that we want to be able to engage the CARICOM trade of taking our produce to CARICOM nations, which means opening up markets for our farmers,” Edghill had said.
The facility will also support marine tourism through the establishment of a dedicated marina and services for visiting yachts and recreational vessels.
According to the minister, the modern port complex will house key government agencies, including Customs, Immigration, the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU), the Guyana Police Force, and the Transport and Harbours Department.
The Ministry of Agriculture and the Fisheries Department are also expected to play a role in the development, with plans for agro-processing facilities that will allow produce to be inspected, processed, packaged and shipped directly from Parika. The project will include cold storage and other supporting infrastructure.
Beyond trade and transportation, the waterfront redevelopment is intended to create a vibrant tourism and entertainment district.
“That whole Parika front is part of the development plan, which will allow us to build out the necessary night entertainment just as you would see in other parts of the world,” Edghill said.
The project will also serve as a launch point for tourists seeking to explore Guyana’s rivers and interior destinations, with plans for restaurants, improved sanitary facilities and expanded mooring space for vessels.
As part of the broader development strategy is the Schoonord-to-Parika Highway, which has improved connectivity, eased traffic congestion and opened additional lands for housing and commercial development.
Prior to the approval of the mega port project design, consultations were held with a range of stakeholders, including farmers, boat operators, taxi and minibus operators, businesses and residents.
Several changes were implemented as construction progresses, including the relocation of speedboats currently occupying sections of the wharf slated for redevelopment. The existing wooden facility used by the MV Sabanto, Kanawan and other vessels will remain operational during construction.
Additionally, a dilapidated building at the stelling will be demolished and replaced with a modern terminal featuring waiting areas and office space for the agencies operating at the facility.
The Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) had already engaged residents living along sections of the sea dam that fall within the project’s alignment regarding relocation arrangements.
In a later phase, the development will include a marina for yachts arriving from the Caribbean and other destinations, while the entire waterfront area will be transformed into a tourism and entertainment zone showcasing the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Essequibo region.
The Parika Modern Port Facility and Waterfront Development is among several major infrastructure initiatives like the Goed Fortuin Waterfront Project being pursued by the government to expand economic opportunities and strengthen Guyana’s transport, tourism and trade sectors.
