Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips has unveiled a landmark $885 million investment to retrofit 21 Amerindian villages with solar photovoltaic systems, marking a major step forward in Guyana’s drive for sustainable energy and digital inclusion in its hinterland communities.
The announcement was made on the second day of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. The initiative, approved by Cabinet, is set to benefit approximately 12,700 residents across Regions 1, 2, 4, 7, and 9, and forms part of the government’s broader strategy to expand access to clean, reliable energy in remote areas.
Prime Minister Phillips highlighted the government’s commitment to bridging the energy and digital divides, emphasizing that improved access to electricity and internet connectivity is transforming lives in Amerindian and riverine regions. He pointed to the progress in Region 9, where a mix of solar, hydropower, and fossil fuel generation has created opportunities for agro-processing and micro-enterprise development, particularly in mango and cashew processing.
Among the villages set to receive the new solar systems are Mashabo in Region Two, St. Cuthbert’s Mission in Region Four, and Kamarang Settlement in Region Seven. Other beneficiaries include Issano/Tassarene, Micobie, Karrau, Rupertee, Katoonarib, Parabara, and Sawariwau, with system sizes tailored to each community’s needs.
The Prime Minister also responded to calls from village leaders for additional solar farms, assuring that the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) will conduct site assessments before any new installations are approved. He noted that household solar systems are already being distributed to various communities, further extending the reach of renewable energy.
Supporting the solar rollout, the government has also made significant strides in digital infrastructure. The National Data Management Authority (NDMA) reported that 228 out of 253 targeted hinterland and Amerindian communities have been connected to high-speed internet, benefiting over 129,000 residents. ICT hubs, equipped with modern technology and powered by solar energy, are being established to support education, healthcare, and economic activity.
To ensure the sustainability of these initiatives, the government has trained nearly 2,000 residents in digital literacy and ICT maintenance, with plans to reach thousands more. Grants of up to USD $40,000 have been provided to 180 Amerindian Village and Community Development Councils to support the establishment and operation of these ICT hubs.
Prime Minister Phillips reaffirmed that these investments are laying the foundation for a digitally inclusive and energy-resilient hinterland, empowering Amerindian communities to participate fully in Guyana’s development and the global digital economy.
