-President Ali urges residents to invest in tourism ventures, agricultural production
RESIDENTS of Anna Regina, Mainstay/Whyaka Village, and surrounding Region Two communities are set to benefit from improved connectivity and expanded economic opportunities following the commissioning of a rehabilitated airstrip on Friday evening.
The project, undertaken by the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Public Works and the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation, forms part of the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure in hinterland and riverain communities.
Delivering the keynote address, His Excellency President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali described the 2,000-metre airstrip as far more than a transportation project. According to him, it represents an investment in the future of Mainstay/Whyaka and the wider Region Two.
President Ali was accompanied by Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips; Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Madanlall Ramraj; Human Services Minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud; Attorney-General Anil Nandlall; Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiently and Implementation Zulikfar Ally; Senior Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh; Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning Keoma Griffith; Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar and other government officials.
The President urged residents to take advantage of the opportunities that the new facility will create. He pointed to the expansion of the tourism sector and an increase in agricultural production.
He highlighted Mainstay’s reputation for producing some of Guyana’s finest pineapples, and encouraged the development of eco-tourism ventures, including luxury cabins and other visitor accommodations.
President Ali said the government is building on the region’s strengths while continuing to invest heavily in infrastructure to unlock economic potential. He noted that improved transportation, including additional ferry services and enhanced air connectivity, will support tourism, agriculture, business, and easier movement of people.
He emphasised that the government remains committed to continued investment in Region Two, noting that the region has experienced unprecedented development under the PPP/C Administration.
“One Guyana is about inclusion and equality,” President Ali stated, adding that national development requires investments in transportation, digital infrastructure, river and sea connectivity, and modern legislation that supports growth.
Although modest in size, the President said the airstrip will have a transformational impact by reducing isolation, improving access to healthcare and education, lowering transportation costs, and creating new economic opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs.
He also thanked the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority, and everyone involved in successfully completing the project.
Minister Ramraj said President Ali has consistently made it clear that development must reach every corner of Guyana, ensuring that every community enjoys equal opportunities and access to quality infrastructure.
Ramraj said the commissioning of the airstrip demonstrates the government’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives of the people of Mainstay/Whyaka and the wider Region Two.
Regional Chairman Devin Mohan described the project as much more than a piece of infrastructure, saying it represents an investment in the future of the community.
He explained that the upgraded airstrip will strengthen tourism, showcase the village’s rich culture and hospitality, stimulate employment, and create new opportunities for sustainable economic growth.
Mohan thanked President Ali for the continued investments being made throughout Region Two, noting that the region is experiencing significant progress across every sector under the current administration.
Toshao Marsha Williams told this publication that the upgraded airstrip is already creating new opportunities for investment and community development.
She explained that improved accessibility will make Mainstay/Whyaka more attractive to visitors and investors while providing direct benefits to farmers, small business owners, and service providers.
According to Williams, tourism and agriculture remain closely connected within the community, as visitors often seek locally grown produce, traditional foods, and authentic cultural experiences. The improved airstrip will strengthen this relationship by making travel easier.
Williams also highlighted that, together with improved road infrastructure, the airstrip will enhance access to essential services, particularly healthcare, by reducing travel time to the coast.
She added that the project will also benefit education by making it easier for students, teachers, and educational groups to travel to and from the village.
Contractor Representative Cynthia Paul of Builders Hardware General Supplies and Construction expressed satisfaction with the completion of the upgrade.
She said the airstrip represents more than the completion of a construction project—it reflects what can be achieved through a shared vision and partnership. Paul expressed hope that the facility will serve the people of Mainstay/Whyaka and Guyana for many years to come.
Additionally, Minister Indar recalled visiting the community during 2025, when residents strongly advocated for improved infrastructure.
He said the commissioning of the airstrip is evidence that the government listens to the concerns of citizens and delivers on its commitments.
Residents welcomed the project, describing it as another example of the government’s continued investment in Amerindian communities.
“I would like to extend heartfelt thanks to President Ali and his government for their continued investment and commitment to the people of Mainstay and Amerindian communities across Guyana,” resident Joel Fredericks said.
The Mainstay/Whyaka Village Council also expressed appreciation to the government for the rehabilitation of runway, describing it as a significant investment that will improve transportation, strengthen connectivity, and support the village’s long-term social and economic development.
