GUYANA is set to strengthen its maritime safety and unlock new opportunities in its blue economy through a strategic partnership with the United Kingdom aimed at improving seabed mapping and hydrographic services.
The collaboration between the UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO) and Guyana’s Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) will enhance the country’s ability to survey and manage its waters, with direct benefits expected for coastal communities, fishing industries, and maritime trade.
According to a press statement, the initiative will provide Guyana with sustainable access to high-quality seabed data, considered essential for safe navigation, effective fisheries management, and climate resilience.
With more than 90 per cent of the population living along the coast and waterways, officials say improved ocean data will play a critical role in safeguarding livelihoods and supporting economic development.
As part of the programme, UKHO specialists are working alongside MARAD teams to transfer technical expertise, share best practices, and calibrate survey equipment aboard Guyana’s vessel, the Arau. Additionally, a MARAD staff member recently completed five months of formal hydrographic training at an internationally accredited institution in the United Kingdom.
The project builds on earlier support from the Commonwealth Marine Economies Programme, which enabled Guyana to supply hydrographic data for the updating of nautical charts along key shipping routes. UKHO personnel also conducted a four-week engagement with local teams to strengthen data collection, processing, and validation standards.
Officials emphasised that the partnership reflects a deliberate policy shift towards building local capacity, allowing Guyana to independently collect and manage critical maritime data over the long term.
The initiative aligns with Guyana’s national development priorities, including its low carbon development agenda, while also supporting the UK Government’s international commitment to sustainable development and climate resilience.
Acting British High Commissioner to Guyana, Liam McShane, said the partnership underscores the UK’s commitment to supporting coastal nations in developing the expertise and tools needed to protect marine resources and ensure safe navigation.
Meanwhile, MARAD representative, Troy Clarke, highlighted that ongoing collaboration has already improved survey data quality and navigation safety, while also enabling participation in international initiatives such as the International Hydrographic Organization’s Empowering Women in Hydrography programme.
UKHO deployments to Guyana in October 2025 and March 2026 were conducted under the Sustainable Blue Economies Technical Assistance Programme, which provides specialised support to Small Island Developing States to advance climate-resilient and sustainable ocean-based economies.
