Preliminary results from the 2022 National Population and Housing Census indicate a notable demographic shift in Guyana, with men now marginally outnumbering women for the first time in recent census history.

According to data presented by the Bureau of Statistics, Guyana’s total population stood at 878,674 persons in 2022, up from 746,955 recorded during the 2012 census.

Of that total, 440,882 were males, accounting for 50.18 per cent of the population, while 437,792 were females, representing 49.82 per cent. This marks a reversal from 2012, when females slightly outnumbered males, comprising 50.22 per cent of the population compared to 49.78 per cent males.

Regional population growth

The preliminary figures also highlight population growth across all 10 administrative regions, with Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) remaining the most populous.

Region Four recorded a total population of 347,759 persons in 2022, up from 311,563 in 2012, with 170,710 males and 177,049 females.

Region Three (Essequibo Islands–West Demerara) posted one of the most significant increases, growing from 107,785 in 2012 to 143,884 in 2022. The region recorded 72,965 males and 70,919 females.

In Region Six (East Berbice–Corentyne), the population rose from 109,652 in 2012 to 114,574 in 2022, while Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) grew from 46,810 to 56,469 over the same period.

Smaller but steady increases were also recorded in the hinterland regions. Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) expanded from 18,375 in 2012 to 30,324 in 2022, while Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) saw its population rise from 11,077 to 13,598.

Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) recorded growth from 24,238 to 29,944, and Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice) increased from 39,992 to 45,499.

Nationwide increase

At the national level, Guyana’s male population increased from 371,805 in 2012 to 440,882 in 2022, while the female population grew from 375,150 to 437,792 during the same period.

The Bureau of Statistics has indicated that the preliminary results provide an early snapshot of population size, distribution by sex and region, and form the basis for further detailed analysis.

The 2022 exercise represents the 18th National Population and Housing Census conducted in Guyana, with more comprehensive data expected to be released in subsequent reports.