New Year Message: PPP urges Guyanese to judge leadership by results, not rhetoric
AS we step into 2025, a pivotal year for Guyana and our democracy, I extend warm and heartfelt New Year greetings to all Guyanese, both at home and abroad. This year is a defining moment for our nation.
As we prepare for the upcoming elections, I urge every citizen to reflect on the progress we have made together, despite the challenges, and the prosperous future we can look forward to as a people. Over the past four years, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has worked tirelessly to fulfil—and even surpass—the commitments made in our 2020-2025 Manifesto. In 2024, the PPP/C government achieved significant milestones across multiple sectors. Over 3,000 community roads and 200 bridges were constructed, while major highway expansions reduced traffic congestion, and boosted economic zones.
The energy sector advanced through ongoing work on the transformative Gas-to-Energy Project, alongside investments in solar energy for electrification in multiple hinterland communities. Employment surged with the creation of over 60,000 jobs, while increased public sector salaries boosted disposable incomes.
Approximately 38,000 house lots were
distributed, and affordable housing programmes improved living standards.
Education saw the distribution of 50,000 scholarships and expanded cash grants for students, while healthcare infrastructure grew with ongoing efforts to construct 12 new hospitals and expand telemedicine services.
The agricultural sector benefitted from billions of dollars invested to enhance food security and exports, while social welfare measures included increased pensions and bonuses for members of the Disciplined Services.
In response to global increases in the cost of living, our citizens also benefitted
from several interventions throughout the year, including the $100,000 cash grant.
Successful carbon credit agreements injected billions in direct support to over 240 Amerindian village economies, alongside advancements in the Low-Carbon Development Strategy 2030, highlighting Guyana’s environmental leadership. Tax reforms alleviated financial burdens, and initiatives in technology, tourism, and digitised public services further modernised the country.
These achievements reflect our unwavering dedication to the betterment of every Guyanese community, regardless of size or location. Our achievements speak for themselves. From advancements in women’s and youth empowerment to the robust development of infrastructure and the empowerment of every sector of society, we have delivered not only on our promises but also on the trust you placed in us when we were given a mandate to govern.
Yet, as we celebrate these milestones, we must also recognise the responsibility that lies ahead. The upcoming 2025 elections are not just about choosing a government; they are about safeguarding the freedoms, rights, and democratic principles that form the foundation of our nation. The preservation of democracy demands
vigilance and unity. To this end, I wish to emphasise that a united Guyana is the only path forward. I call on every Guyanese to look beyond race, ethnicity, and divisive rhetoric when choosing leaders, and judge leadership by its track record of delivering for the people.
The PPP remains proud to be the only multi-ethnic political party in Guyana, representing and uplifting the rich diversity of our nation. At the same time, we cannot ignore the lessons of the past. The transgressions of the PNCR, APNU, and AFC, whether through undermining democracy, mismanaging resources, or harming our people, must not be forgotten or excused.
Accountability is critical to maintaining justice, transparency, and good governance for future generations. As we move into this critical year, let us commit to working together for a stronger, more inclusive, and prosperous Guyana. Your support will be essential as we continue to build a nation that offers opportunity, unity, and hope for all.
On behalf of the People’s Progressive Party, I wish you and your families a Happy New Year.
May 2025 bring continued progress, peace, and success to our beloved Guyana.
2025 Vision: IAC envisions improved infrastructure, safety, and social welfare
THE Indian Action Committee (IAC), in recognition of the fact that the Cooperative Republic of Guyana is acknowledged by all international financial institutions to be the fastest-growing economy in the world, over the past three years, calls upon the government of Guyana to maintain its speed of economic development that is observed in all of the administrative regions of the country.
The IAC, realizing that Guyana is now an oil-rich, oil-producing nation that is amassing wealth on a daily basis, calls upon the government, which is mandated to use these funds prudently, to keep in mind the upliftment of that section of the population that is impoverished and down-trodden. The IAC, in 2025, is hoping to see continued improvement in sea defenses along the most vulnerable areas of the coastline of Guyana that are under constant threat by the rising Atlantic Ocean; enforcement of the Traffic Laws by the Guyana Police Force to ensure safer road use and reduction of vehicular accidents and road fatalities which have increased with a massive influx of vehicles; immediate reform of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission which continues to suffer from numerous complaints about unmonitored illegal gold mining; to continue to witness the allocations of commercial space for small vendors; to continue to observe government initiatives that are resulting in reductions in incidents of spousal abuse and
substance abuse; to continue to monitor the continuous influx of Venezuelans especially given the undeniable fact that for the most part, they arrive here in search of immediate shelter; to take a strong stance against continued and continuous human trafficking along the borders; to see a continuation of better living conditions for the less fortunate elderly citizens. The IAC is extremely pleased with the decision of the government of Guyana to make tertiary education free for all Guyanese. The IAC will continue to pursue vigorously its three foci: cultural, educational and social work.
The IAC calls upon all citizens to support the current developmental drive that will see all Guyanese enjoy the patrimony of the nation.
New Year’s Greetings: Minister McCoy urges Guyanese to reflect on achievements, look to the future
AS we welcome 2025, I extend my warmest New Year’s greetings to all Guyanese, both at home and abroad. This is a time to reflect on the strides we have made as a nation, and to recommit ourselves to the values of unity, progress, and resilience that define us as a people.
In 2024, our government has worked tirelessly to deliver on its promises, advancing our development agenda while ensuring that every citizen benefits from the fruits of our collective labour. From transformative infrastructure projects and expanded access to education and healthcare to initiatives supporting job creation, affordable housing, and social welfare, we have made meaningful progress in improving lives across the country.
As Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, I am proud to have played a role in driving initiatives that
foster inclusivity, empower communities, and modernise our nation. These achievements are not just the result of governmental effort, but of the unwavering spirit and dedication of the Guyanese people. Together, we have laid the foundation for a brighter and more prosperous future.
Looking ahead, 2025 presents a critical juncture for Guyana. It is a year when we must reaffirm our commitment to democracy, unity, and national development. I urge every Guyanese to embrace the opportunities before us, and to continue working together to build a nation where everyone can thrive.
May this New Year bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to you and your families. Let us move forward with hope, determination, and a shared vision for an even greater Guyana. Happy New Year!
Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister Kwame McCoy
GAWU anticipates significant achievements in 2025, following a successful 2024
AS we conclude 2024, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) is reflecting on the year’s journey, and expresses our sincere appreciation to our members and the wider community. This year has presented both challenges and opportunities for workers in Guyana. As we set our sights on 2025, we remain dedicated to advocating for fair labour practices, better working conditions, and enhanced livelihoods for all workers.
In 2024, we are proud to have successfully negotiated several long-term agreements that have positively impacted pay rates for our union members. Many of these agreements span multiple years, providing a foundation of stability and predictability that enhances disposable income for our members. This achievement marks a significant milestone in our union’s history, reflecting workers’ and employers’ maturity and commitment to seeking collaborative solutions. Importantly, these agreements addressed pay and various working conditions, leading to tangible benefits for those within our bargaining units. We celebrate the wins we have achieved this year for the workers represented by GAWU.
In the sugar industry, which constitutes our major bargaining unit, we recognise that 2024 has brought challenges. While we ac-
knowledge the slower momentum compared to 2023, we understand that sugar remains a vital pillar of Guyana’s economy, providing employment and contributing to both rural and national development. We have voiced our concerns publicly, and believe in the potential for improvement on several fronts.
We resonate with the sentiments expressed by His Excellency President Dr. Irfaan Ali regarding the industry’s performance. We fully support the President’s vision, and urge the sugar industry’s management to enhance its operations. Looking ahead, we anticipate a thorough review of performance metrics and organisational practices to ensure a more successful 2025. We also extend our gratitude to the Govern-
ment of Guyana for its continued support in revitalising the industry.
As we close 2024, we also focus on the pressing challenges facing oil-and-gas workers. Although the country is experiencing significant economic growth due to the oil-and-gas sector, it is crucial that the workers contributing to this prosperity are not overlooked. Too often, they face precarious conditions, limited rights, and a lack of sufficient benefits.
Our evaluation indicates that oil workers have not seen corresponding improvements in their working conditions, job security, or compensation. GAWU is deeply concerned about the current circumstances for these workers in Guyana, and advocates for an equitable distribution of the wealth generated by the oil-and-gas industry. The rights of oil workers must be prioritised, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, job security, and social protections that acknowledge their invaluable contributions. We stand in solidarity with oil workers in Guyana and are committed to advocating for their rights in the broader pursuit of fair labour practices and the dignity of work.
Furthermore, GAWU calls for a timely review and enhancement of the national minimum wage to accurately reflect the actual cost of living, considering the rising prices of essential goods and services. We advocate for a wage increase that allows
workers to meet their basic needs, support their families, and live with the dignity and respect they deserve. This issue becomes even more pressing with the Government’s intention to raise the public sector minimum wage to $100,000 per month by the end of 2025. A fair and just society must prioritise the welfare of workers, and improving the national minimum wage is a critical step in that process. We remain steadfast in our commitment to pushing for a wage that genuinely reflects the value of workers’ labour and their economic realities.
As we move into 2025, GAWU is enthusiastic about building on our progress while preparing to tackle the challenges ahead. We look forward to fostering increased investments in workers’ welfare, including enhanced access to healthcare, pension schemes, and training opportunities, ensuring a secure and dignified future for all workers. Additionally, we are eager to collaborate with stakeholders to develop and implement policies that promote sustainability, safeguard the environment, and equip workers to adapt to climate challenges.
In closing, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all who have supported our initiatives throughout the year. Together, we can continue to create a brighter and more equitable future for all workers in Guyana.
Counter-trafficking initiatives flourish as Guyana strengthens support systems
THE Counter-Trafficking-in-Persons (C-TIP) Department under the Minis-
try of Human Services and Social Security (MHSSS) has launched several pro-
grammes aimed at raising awareness about human trafficking and enhancing
measures to combat it.
In a year-end press conference, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, highlighted the department’s proactive initiatives and significant achievements over the past year.
Minister Persaud revealed that the C-TIP Department conducted 25 raids throughout the year, successfully identifying several alleged and suspected victims of trafficking. She emphasised the importance
of expanding and strengthening shelter programmes for trafficking victims, ensuring they receive the support needed to recover and reintegrate into society.
“We have maintained a Tier One ranking for seven consecutive years in our efforts against human trafficking. This reflects our commitment to excellence in collaboration with our partners, particularly the Ministry of Home Affairs,” said Minister Persaud. She noted that a task force is actively working on a national plan that will be revamped to enhance efforts in addressing trafficking and related crimes.
From a personal standpoint, Minister Persaud shared her extensive outreach efforts, having visited 60 communities across
Guyana. Through these engagements, the ministry connected with nearly 20,000 individuals, raising awareness about available services and gathering valuable feedback on the ground.
“Feedback is extremely important,” the minister stated, highlighting the need for both social media and direct communication to improve the ministry’s efficiency and effectiveness.
The C-TIP Department was established in 2005 with the primary goal of combating human trafficking and reducing its prevalence in Guyana.
With ongoing efforts and a commitment to community engagement, the ministry aims to further its impact in the fight against this grave violation of human rights.
Zara Centres recognise outstanding instructors, administrators at Annual Awards Ceremony
–– Deputy Commissioner Budhram commends teamwork
Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’ of the Guyana Police Force, Mr. Ravindradat Budhram
founder of the Zara Computer Centres and owner of the Jay & Sylvia Sobhraj Foundation
awardees of the GPF’s Zara Computer Centre Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony held at
from
THE Guyana Police Force’s Zara Computer Centre celebrated another milestone in its journey of fostering digital literacy and empowerment during its Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony held on Monday, December 30, 2024, at Regency Suites, Georgetown.
The evening showcased the remarkable
Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’, Ravindradat Budhram, hands over an award celebrating another milestone of the Zara Computer Centre in fostering digital literacy and empowerment during the awards ceremony held at Regency Suites
achievements of the Zara Centres, highlighting their pivotal role in advancing technology within the Police Force and communities across Guyana.
The ceremony commenced with prayers representing the Hindu, Christian, and Muslim faiths, followed by the recitation of the National Pledge, setting a tone of unity and gratitude. Assistant Superintendent, Gladwyn Hanover, the event coordinator, welcomed attendees with introductory remarks that chronicled the growth of Zara Centres over the past 12 years. He noted their expansion from a modest three centres with six staff members to an impressive network of 20 centres, now supported by a team of 49 professionals.
Assistant Superintendent Hanover proudly announced the commissioning of three mega centres in 2024, each equipped with two state-of-the-art labs. He also highlighted the launch of a virtual learning environment through CBSI-Connect
CARICOM IMPACS, which has already facilitated over 14 online sessions. This platform allows centres to independently conduct and evaluate classes, a process overseen by senior officials such as Woman Superintendent Sonia Herbert and Information Technology Consultant, Mr. Nardeo Singh.
Force Training Officer, Senior Superintendent Sonia Herbert commended the ranks for their dedication and hard work. She emphasised the critical role of women in advancing technology and underscored the importance of digital literacy in modern policing, positioning it as a cornerstone of progressive law enforcement practices.
Delivering the feature address, Dr. Jay Sobhraj, founder of the Zara Computer Centres and owner of the Jay & Sylvia Sobhraj Foundation, reflected on the centre’s transformative journey. Dr. Sobhraj expressed immense pride in the organisation’s contributions to enhancing digital literacy within the Police Force and com -
munities. He reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to education and community development, envisioning a future where technology serves as a catalyst for individual and societal growth.
Deputy Commissioner ‘Administration’ of the Guyana Police Force, Mr. Ravindradat Budhram, also addressed the gathering, commending the teamwork and dedication that have driven the consistent achievements of the Zara Centres. His words of encouragement resonated with attendees, reinforcing the collective spirit that underpins the organisation’s success.
The evening’s highlight was the recognition of outstanding contributions through awards and certificates. The honorees included: Runner-up Instructor: Shania Moore, Instructor of the Year: Shivanand Mohan, Runner-up Centre Administrator: Travel Eastman, and Centre Administrator of the Year: Ayana Douglas. Additionally, awards were presented to the ‘Best
Instructors from each region, acknowledging their exceptional service and dedication.
Assistant Superintendent Hanover expressed heartfelt appreciation for the young volunteers whose selfless contributions have been instrumental in the success of various centres. Their efforts, he noted, reflect the spirit of community service that defines the Zara Centres.
The ceremony concluded with a ‘Vote of Thanks’ delivered by Ayana Douglas, followed by a sumptuous dinner. Esteemed guests, including Woman Superintendent Nicola Kendall, members of the Sobhraj family, ranks, and special invitees, joined in the celebration, marking another successful year for the Zara Computer Centre.
This annual event not only celebrated achievements but also reinforced the shared vision of empowering communities and advancing digital literacy, ensuring a brighter, technology-driven future for Guyana.
(third from right seated) next to senior officers and Dr. Jay Sobhraj,
(third
left seated) with other officials flanked by honorees and
Regency Suites, Georgetown
Guyana sees record-low crime rates
POINTING to record-low crime rates, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali has said Guyana has made significant strides in boosting public safety and this must be credited to the strategic investments being made to improve the country’s law enforcement.
“In the last 10 years, serious crime reports were the lowest in the current year,” the President told local journalist at a Tuesday press conference where, he reflected on crime statistics over the past decade.
The Head of State further highlighted the concerted efforts of law enforcement agencies and the government’s investments in technology and personnel.
The President also pointed out the dramatic decline in murders, calling this year the most successful in terms of homicide reduction.
He related: “Over the last 10 years, the lowest number of murders were recorded this year.”
In addition to homicides, robbery statistics also saw a steep drop, President Ali said, noting: “The lowest number of all categories of robberies were recorded this year over the last 10 years.”
The reduction in robberies is another testament to the effectiveness of the government’s crime-fighting initiatives, which have prioritised a data-driven approach to policing and community safety.
The illegal trade of guns, and human trafficking also saw a steep drop, with those respective statistics also showing a record low percentile in 2024 over the past decade.
The President praised the commitment of the country’s police force, emphasising their proac-
tive approach to maintaining law and order.
“That tells you that our men and women in the form are proactively working,” Dr. Ali said, affirming the dedication of law enforcement officers who are working tirelessly to ensure public safety.
Another key highlight was the country’s clearance rate for murders in 2024.
Those statistics, Dr. Ali said, reflect the government’s success in solving and prosecuting homicides.
“Our clear up rate for murders for the year 2024 accounts to 71 per cent—what that means is that more people who are committing these acts have been caught, charged and prosecuted,” he said.
The President attributed this achievement to the substantial investments made in technological advancements, such as modern command centers and surveillance systems.
“This is because of the investment we have made in technology, the safe command centers and the surveillance system that we have put in place,” the Head of State said.
Recently, President Ali had stated that the trust and confidence in the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has reached new heights.
Dr. Ali said: “If you enter some police stations, you were afraid even to approach the station because of the condition of the building, and of the stench that comes out of the building… What you have seen over the last number of years, at least since 2020, is that more and more citizens are making reports…”
The GPF had previously faced numerous challenges and overall, the security sector was on shaky foundation in 2015-2020. However, the current People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C)
government has taken a hands-on approach to enhancing the security sector.
Pointing to a key component of this initiative, President Ali highlighted
how the GPF’s welfare infrastructure has improved. He said: “If you look at all the different facilities, the new stations, you will see that it is more customer oriented, it is more ser-
vice oriented. So that was an important part.”
Notably, the recent modernisation efforts have seen the establishment of a Community Relations Department to strengthen police-community relations, promote safe communities, and enhance preventative policing strategies through positive engagements and public trust.
CCWU New Year Message
Dear Editor,
HAPPY New Year 2025 to the entire workforce.
As we enter the new year, it’s essential to consider what role the Guyana Labour Movement could play in shaping the future of our workforce and labor rights.
As we approach the
end of the year, we’d like to take a moment to thank you for your incredible support throughout 2024. Your dedication has been vital to advancing our peace, trade union rights, human rights, and social justice mission. We look forward to continuing this journey together in 2025 and engaging with you
even more!
The Clerical & Commercial Workers’ Union (CCWU) is warning all employers to respect workers’ rights with whom they do business. The CCWU intends to go on an offensive against any employer who believes that the time is ripe to ignore Collective Labour Agreements signed
on behalf of the workers. General Secretary of the CCWU, Sherwood Clarke, observed that several employers are moving to change working conditions agreed to without recourse to the Union. There seems to be a calculated move by employers to drive fear into workers by insisting that they must do what
the employer requires. However, the direction contravenes the Collective Labour Agreement (CLA). This approach conflicts with ILO Conventions and Recommendations.
The CCWU will not sit idly by nor allow any company to throw away labour agreements. Labour Agreements set out the rights of both employers and employees and must be respected. Employers who do not respect Workers’ Rights can expect a confrontation with the CCWU. We are a responsible Union and take pride in that. We give our members the kind of representation that they deserve, ensuring they are protected and supported.
Trade Unions originated in defence of and continue to exist to defend workers against exploitation. Such is its primary function because a new role should be considered even the slightest. The movement cannot successfully undertake a more constructive role, one most relevant to Guyana’s social, economic, and political realities, until it is adequately geared. Therefore, I suggest leaving this until the movement is set in the correct gear.
The Movement has, throughout its history, played a key role in the development of the social and political structures in Guyana have the most solid institutions of democracy.
Furthermore, one of the key elements of a successful adjustment or transformation will be workers’ cooperation and active involvement in the process.
Commitment, participation, and cooperation do not come automatically at the push of a button. It must be Built up through discussion, information exchange, and agreement at the workplace and in policymaking.
The unity of the labour movement is not just a value we hold; it’s our strength. It seems threatened, and the situation runs counter to all that the Founding Fathers Crichlow and their followers and supporters fought and struggled with at the start of the last century. Let’s remember their spirit and stand united.
Small developing States such as those in the Caribbean suffer from globalization’s negative impact and the unleveled playing fields. In this scenario, the workers’ only hope is the trade union movement, and leaders must recognize this tremendous responsibility, stick steadfastly to the struggle for justice and fair play in the workplace, and not allow politicians to manipulate them or to become their tools.
There are three significant points about globalization: (1) It is irreversible, (2) It has created unprecedented wealth for some, and it has failed to fulfill the promise made by its promoters – that is, to eradicate poverty from the earth. In addition, Globalization is trending to undermine the national protection of workers’ Rights as set out by the International Labour Organization in its Declaration on “Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work.”
(3) The World Trade Organization (WTO) does not promote a level playing field; it tends to favour the rich developed countries over the distinct advantage of the poor and small developing countries.
Science and technology are realities that we must face. They have dire economic and social consequences for developing countries like Guyana. Therefore, it behooves the social partners to sit together and agree on
Mahdia residents participate in sensitisation seminar on Labour Laws, Child Labour
RESIDENTS of Mahdia, Region Eight, recently took part in a four-day sensitisation seminar aimed at increasing awareness of Guyana’s labour laws, addressing the harmful effects of child labour, and promoting safe and healthy workplace practices.
This initiative, organised by the Ministry of Labour, reflects the government’s commitment to fostering awareness and compliance with labour laws while advocating for the rights and safety of all workers across the country.
A one-day seminar was also held in Micobie Village, where 61 employers and employees gained valuable insights into these critical topics. Both sessions were facilitated by Labour Officer Ms. Denise Duncan and Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Officer Mr. Ray Hossannah.
The seminars covered several key topics, including:
Child Labour: Participants learned about the legal definitions of child labour, its root causes such as poverty, lack of education, and cultural norms, as well as the adverse physical, emotional, and educational impacts on children.
Workplace Conditions:
Discussions also focused on the National Minimum Wage, hours of work, overtime payment, and the importance of adhering to OSH standards to ensure a safe and productive work environment.
These educational initiatives aim to empower residents with the knowledge needed to uphold labour laws and protect the rights of workers in their communities.
The Ministry of Labour remains dedicated to enhancing awareness and ensuring compliance with legislation that promotes fair and safe working conditions for all Guyanese.
Mahdia residents attended a four-day seminar on Guyanese labour laws, child labour prevention, and workplace safety
CCWU New Year ...
From page 16
what is possible and what is not.
We must together determine where we are, set our goals, and determine how we reach them together.
This is now urgent for the social partners, and as a workers’ movement, we must take the initiative.
The CCWU General Secretary emphasized that passing and adopting the national budget 2025 could be a milestone in the national effort to create a more equitable national tax system. The national budget will help ensure that the country, especially developing Guyana, can fully participate in sharing tax policies that have far-reaching impacts on workers, communities, and the government.
We believe this framework will strengthen our country’s fiscal capabilities, enabling it to invest more in poverty reduction, essential public services, infrastructure, and sustainable development initiatives supporting a Just Transition.
The CCWU General Secretary notably proposed the following aspects of the national budget 2025:
The focus on inclusivity and equitable taxation aligns closely with trade unions’ longstanding call for a fairer redistribution of country wealth.
The aim is to curtail tax evasion and avoidance by multinationals and wealthy individuals, as well as profit shifting and illicit financial flows that disproportionately harm developing economies.
The proposals to give specific attention to the digital economy and the environment.
It emphasizes supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and enhancing the fiscal space of developing countries like Guyana.
The inclusion of trade unions and other civil society organizations to ensure transparency in the process.
This initiative will provide governments in developing countries like Guyana with the resources needed to combat poverty, create jobs, reduce income inequality, and enhance workers’ livelihoods by improving tax collection mechanisms and ensuring fair taxation of multinational corporations and high-net-worth individuals.
Sherwood Clarke added, “The General Secretary of CCWU is committed to ensuring that workers’ perspectives are adequately represented.”
Thank you once again for being an essential part of the CCWU.
Together, we will continue to make a difference in 2025 and beyond.
Yours faithfully,
Sherwood Clarke General Secretary/CEO CLERICAL AND COMMERCIAL WORKERS’ UNION
Gov’t records 70 per cent increase in pensioners since 2020
SINCE August 2020, when the current administration assumed office, the Government of Guyana has made remarkable strides in improving the well-being of senior citizens through the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MHSSS).
This progress was outlined by Minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud during a press conference at her office on Lamaha Street, Georgetown, on Tuesday.
Minister Persaud reported a significant 70 per cent increase in the number of pensioners registered under her Ministry. Moreover, old-age pension amounts have surged by 75 per cent, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing social support for the elderly. In 2023, the old-age pension was raised to $36,000, with a planned increase to $41,000 by 2025.
“In only four years, the current administration has placed strategic measures in place to improve the lives of our elders,” Dr. Persaud emphasised.
Among these initiatives is a transformative programme aimed at engaging
seniors in various activities, including recreational, educational, and digital literacy sessions. She noted, “This year, we launched a very transformational programme where we are going into communities. We started in Victoria, and weekly we will have sessions to engage our seniors. One area of focus is teaching them about digital literacy— practical skills like using smartphones to fill out forms online.”
Senior citizens also benefitted from critical financial support measures in 2023. Water and electricity subsidies provided additional disposable income of $200 million annually to 27,000 pensioners. Furthermore, more than 1,000 individuals received spectacles through the Ministry’s iCare programme, enhancing their quality of life.
The government’s commitment to alleviating poverty among the elderly is further demonstrated through oneoff cash grants and bonuses. In 2021, pensioners received a $25,000 grant,
–– old-age pension to rise to $41,000 by 2025, says Minister Persaud
injecting $1.6 billion back into their hands. This was followed by a $28,000 one-off cash grant in 2022 and a $25,000 bonus in 2023, benefitting over 72,000 pensioners at a cost of $1.8 billion.
These measures are part of a broader strategy to create a more inclusive and equitable society. Guyana’s non-contributory pension system has been recognised as a powerful tool for reducing poverty and inequality in the region. The government has also streamlined pension access through alternative payment methods such as direct bank transfers and payments to shut-in pensioners, including those with disabilities and individuals without access to post offices.
Dr. Persaud lauded these initiatives as pivotal steps toward ensuring senior citizens’ dignity and economic security.
She reiterated the administration’s commitment to sustaining these efforts and expanding programmes that uplift the most vulnerable members of society.
Minister of Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (Delano Williams photo)
