President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and the newly elected executive of the Essequibo Islands–West Demerara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (R3CCI) have pledged to work together to ensure that the rapid transformation of Region Three delivers tangible benefits for all residents and businesses.
At a landmark meeting held on Thursday, R3CCI President Bhabita Albert—the first woman to lead the chamber since its inception—outlined her vision for a more engaged and empowered business community. The discussions centered on transparency, inclusion, and measurable results, with both sides emphasizing the need for strategic collaboration as Region Three experiences unprecedented growth in infrastructure, manufacturing, housing, and education.
Albert highlighted the chamber’s plans to aggregate local suppliers to better serve the needs of the oil and gas sector, foster public-private partnerships, and revitalize R3CCI’s role in shaping regional and national policy. “Our renewed focus goes beyond business, and is designed to improve lives, strengthen our community, and ensure Region Three’s GDP grows along with the nation’s,†she stated.
President Ali echoed these sentiments, reiterating his administration’s commitment to inclusive growth. He pointed to massive investments in the region—including new highways, agro-processing zones, and private port developments—as evidence of the government’s strategy to decentralize development and boost economic output.
The chamber’s leadership also announced plans to host a Business Cocktail & Networking Event on June 23, where they will unveil their 2025–2026 roadmap for regional development. Business leaders, government officials, investors, and the public are invited to participate in shaping this new phase of partnership.
Region Three, now recognized as Guyana’s fastest-growing region, is poised to become a model for inclusive and sustainable development. With a renewed spirit of collaboration between the public and private sectors, stakeholders are optimistic that the benefits of prosperity will reach every corner of the community.

