THE ongoing construction of the $4.3 billion International Parika Port marks more than just another infrastructural upgrade, it signals Guyana’s deliberate stride toward modernisation, connectivity, and economic diversification.
For too long, the Parika Stelling has stood as a vital but outdated artery linking Georgetown to the Essequibo and beyond. With the development of a state-of-the-art port facility, that artery is being transformed into a thriving hub for regional trade and international travel.
This project, now well underway, is emblematic of the kind of forward-thinking investments that can propel Guyana into its next phase of economic growth.
The port will not only accommodate cargo vessels and cruise liners but will also enhance the efficiency of exports and stimulate tourism, two critical sectors that must work hand-in-hand for sustainable development.
Public Works Minister Bishop Juan Edghill’s insistence on continuous, well-coordinated construction work — “no closure without activity,” as he aptly put it — reflects the urgency and discipline needed to see such transformative projects through.
His commitment to stakeholder engagement, from farmers to boat operators, also underscores a people-centered approach to progress. Infrastructure, after all, is only as successful as its integration with the communities it serves.
The planned phases of the project, including the introduction of a luxury marina, restaurants, and entertainment spaces along the waterfront, promise to redefine Parika’s image — from a busy transit point to a destination in itself.
This aligns perfectly with Guyana’s growing ambitions to attract high-value tourism and showcase the natural splendor of the Essequibo region.
Yet, ambition alone is not enough. For the Parika Port to truly deliver on its potential, meticulous execution, transparency, and long-term maintenance must remain non-negotiable.
The involvement of multiple contractors — Gaico Construction, Toolsie Persaud Limited, and A&S General Contractors — demands strong oversight to ensure quality, safety, and timeliness.
Similarly, the relocation of residents and speedboat operators must be handled with empathy and fairness, ensuring that progress does not come at the expense of livelihoods.
The Parika Port’s success will not only be measured by its physical completion but by its ability to catalyse broader economic linkages, from facilitating smoother exports of Guyanese goods to positioning the country as a maritime gateway to the Caribbean.
Coupled with other major national projects, such as the Gas-to-Energy initiative and the Vreed-en-Hoop Shorebase, this new port strengthens Guyana’s foundation for inclusive, diversified growth.
In essence, the Parika Port project embodies what development should look like in the modern era — purposeful, people-focused, and forward-looking. If managed wisely, it will stand as a testament to how Guyana can translate its resources and vision into tangible, lasting prosperity.