GUYANA’S economic boom, fuelled by its offshore oil wealth, is being complemented by strategic investments aimed at long-term economic diversification. Critically involved in this effort is the Greater Guyana Initiative (GGI).
It is a US$100 million, decade-long commitment by ExxonMobil Guyana, Hess, and CNOOC. As Guyana continues to grapple with challenges of equitable development and capacity gaps, GGI has proven its effectiveness in helping to bridge these divides.
GGI will open a new call for proposals from July 1, inviting organisations and institutions to put forward projects that need support. The application window will close on July 31. This call forms part of GGI’s wider mission to strengthen local capacity in education, health, and economic development across all regions of the country.
Launched in 2021, the initiative works in close partnership with government agencies, academic institutions, and non-governmental organisations. Projects are selected in consultation with stakeholders and supported by technical experts. The ultimate goal: to build a more skilled and resilient workforce, support the delivery of services, and promote self-sufficiency in key areas such as food production and healthcare.
Since its launch, GGI has supported more than two dozen projects, each tackling a different development need but all contributing to economic and social upliftment. One example is a water purification and sustainability project introduced at West Demerara Secondary School, following its successful rollout at Queen’s College.
Proposed by a SHOUT competition winner and executed by Recover Guyana with support from the Ministry of Education, the initiative installs advanced filtration systems that provide clean drinking water while reducing the use of single-use plastic bottles. Beyond the schools, the project benefits entire communities by promoting environmental responsibility and public health.
In the health sector, GGI is backing the rollout of a National Health Information Systems & Technology (HIST) Workforce Development Programme. Led by Mount Sinai Health System, the initiative is training more than 250 health information specialists and launching a digital health records system that will be accessible at clinics across the country. Patients will also be able to access their records and book appointments through a new mobile app. This is a major leap toward a more efficient, integrated healthcare system and a digital-ready workforce.
GGI’s investment has also revitalised poultry production in Guyana’s hinterland. The Egg Sandwich project, executed in partnership with the Rupununi Livestock Producers Association, has reached all 57 communities in the Rupununi. Over 18,000 dual-purpose chickens have been sold, and more than 1,100 farmers have been trained. With a modern hatchery now operating in the region, this project is providing income opportunities and improving nutrition.
Another standout is the Agricultural Innovation and Empowerment Programme (AIEP), developed in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture. It is helping Guyana meet its regional food security targets by engaging over 1,000 young people in Regions 2, 5, and 10 in smart farming practices like hydroponics. These farms grow high-value vegetables and herbs, contributing to import substitution and creating meaningful jobs for youth.
Together, these initiatives are expanding local capacity and building stronger foundations for economic growth. They are creating employment, modernising service delivery, and closing key development gaps, including in remote areas. The involvement of women and youth, in particular, is also making growth more equitable.
As the July application period approaches, it is crucial that more people learn about GGI and how its funding can support their work in communities across the country. Now is the time for local organisations, schools, and changemakers to step forward with bold ideas. If your work aligns with Guyana’s development goals, consider applying to the Greater Guyana Initiative. You can learn more about this application process by visiting https://greaterguyanainitiative.gy/apply/

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.