In the face of Guyana’s rapid economic expansion, with the nation now being hailed as the world’s fastest-growing economy, many citizens find themselves grappling with increasingly difficult living conditions. Guyana since December 2019- December 2024 has earned approximately US$5.4 Billion in oil and gas revenue but this wealth is not generated in a holistic manner to improvement the standard of living for all, particularly ordinary Guyanese.
The government of Irfaan Ali has been quick to tout the country’s economic boom, particularly from its burgeoning oil sector, but this growth seems to be benefiting only a select few, leaving many at their wits’ end just trying to survive.
In areas such as Hydronie, Parika, and surrounding communities on the East Bank of Essequibo, residents are sounding the alarm over the poor state of infrastructure that is hindering their ability to thrive, despite the country’s impressive economic trajectory.
One of the most urgent issues at hand is the state of the drainage systems, which are vital to preventing flooding and supporting the region’s agricultural and residential life.
The drains and primary canals in Hydronie and Parika have long been choked with silt, debris, and overgrowth, rendering them ineffective. The neglect of these essential drainage systems has resulted in stagnant water, a breeding ground for mosquitoes, and an increased risk of waterborne diseases. The situation is now dire, yet it seems to be largely ignored by the relevant authorities.
Residents are asking: Where are the National and Regional Democratic Councils (NDCs, RDCs)? Where is the government that continuously promises improvements and prosperity to the people, yet fails to deliver basic services like proper drainage? Where are the promises made during elections, where voters are told that their lives will improve if they cast their ballots in favor of the ruling party? The truth is, these promises remain just that—empty words.
This neglect goes beyond the issues of drainage and flooding. It speaks to the broader picture of poor infrastructural development across the country, a country that is paradoxically among the fastest growing economies in the world.
While the government has made much of the newfound wealth generated from oil reserves, the benefits are not reaching the everyday Guyanese.
The rapid pace of economic growth, which should be improving the lives of all citizens, is instead perpetuating inequality. Many of the country’s infrastructure projects are either incomplete, substandard, or entirely out of reach for the average person who continues to struggle in their pursuit of economic development.
From crumbling roads to inadequate healthcare and education facilities, the evidence of neglect is all around. Small business owners in particular are suffering from the lack of proper infrastructure that could support their growth. The lack of reliable roads, functioning drainage systems, and essential services puts a huge strain on those who are trying to make a living, forcing many to abandon their efforts or face financial ruin.
For those who want to invest in agriculture or other local industries, the poor drainage systems, like those in Hydronie, create an environment where crops are regularly damaged, and businesses are flooded out.
It is increasingly difficult to reconcile Guyana’s status as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies with the reality faced by so many of its citizens. This disparity highlights a disturbing trend in the government’s priorities, where the well-being of everyday citizens is sidelined in favour of grand promises and photo-ops.
There is a growing disconnect between the country’s wealth, as seen in its thriving oil sector, and the struggles of ordinary people.
Former Mayor Pt. Ubraj Narine and Vice Chair of the Institute for Action Against Discrimination (IFAAD), visited the area over the weekend. He is calling on the government to stop treating the people of Guyana as mere voters to be courted during election seasons with promises of prosperity.
He said IFAAD wants to see development that is holistic and inclusive, with a focus on improving the infrastructure that supports the livelihoods of all citizens. According to the former mayor, if the government is truly committed to the well-being of the people, it must prioritize these fundamental needs and work towards an equitable distribution of the country’s wealth.